PULLMAN, Wash. — The investigation into the death of a Washington State University (WSU) student found dead in his dorm room one month ago continues, even after his death was ruled a suicide.
19-year-old Luke M. Tyler was found dead in his dorm room on Jan. 22.
According to the Whitman County Medical Examiner, Tyler's manner of death was suicide, caused by "acute intoxication due to the combined effects of alcohol and bupropion," a medication commonly used to treat depression. KREM 2 confirmed the medication was prescribed to Tyler.
His family is pushing for more answers surrounding his death.
"We are continuing to work with the authorities to determine how in a short 4 months during his first semester at WSU, Luke went from a positive, compassionate, and kind young man to having a depression so deep that caused him to take his own life," Tyler's family said in a statement.
"He had shared with close friends that he was at his breaking point due to hazing at Theta Chi, and we look forward to learning the truth about his experience."
As WSU Police continue to investigate the death, Pullman Police tell KREM 2 News they are also investigating.
"Our investigation is indirectly related to WSU PD's death investigation and is focused on circumstances outside the WSU Campus," Aaron Breshears, Pullman Police Commander said.
Pullman PD declined to share any details about their investigation, saying "any public comments could hinder our investigation."
The family's attorney, Becky Roe, says that Pullman police are investigating the fraternity Theta Chi for possible hazing after an online petition contained claims Luke was hazed before his death.
The Theta Chi Fraternity sent KREM 2 the following statement:
Theta Chi is deeply saddened by the passing of Luke Tyler, a collegiate member who was initiated into the Alpha Omicron Chapter at Washington State University in October of 2022. The Fraternity expresses its sincere condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
It is our understanding that local police are investigating Luke Tyler's death, as is done with any death on campus. We expect all Theta Chi members to cooperate with the authorities. The Fraternity awaits the full results of the investigation.
In an obituary posted online, Luke’s family described him as an avid athlete with a thirst for adventure. He also spent summers teaching kids how to sail at Sail Sand Point, lifeguarding, and crabbing in the San Juans. His family says Luke was studying Kinesiology at WSU, with dreams of becoming a physical therapist.
"He was a kind, compassionate person who stood up for the underdogs," the obituary states. "He was determined and driven, and genuinely cared about others. He gave the biggest hugs, had the best smile and was known to his friends as a prankster while creating an environment where everyone could have fun. Luke was such a bright light, a shooting star, that came and went through our lives too quickly. Luke was a beacon of kindness to all: strangers, friends, and family. He will be greatly missed by many, whose lives he touched."
A celebration of life for Luke Tyler will be held on Saturday, March 4. The service will be held at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Kirkland. The service will also be live-streamed.
The family is asking people to consider donating to “The Luke Tyler Memorial Scholarship Fund” at Sail Sand Point to enable other children to learn to sail and love the water the way Luke did.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. To talk with someone, dial 9-8-8 or click here.
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