In a statement provided by Luke Tyler’s family they said they are working with authorities to determine why he committed suicide on Jan. 22 and mentioned alleged hazing at Theta Chi fraternity.

“As we are preparing for Luke Tyler’s Celebration of Life, we continue to be grateful for the immense outpouring of support and love for our family, as well as the recognition of the impact on the many lives that Luke touched. Luke’s suicide is a tremendous loss of life, love and potential that we continue to grieve,” the statement said. 

On Monday, the Whitman County Coroner concluded that Tyler, 19, died from suicide with the cause of death being acute intoxication due to the combined effects of alcohol and bupropion. 

“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. 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,” the statement said. 

Theta Chi also released a statement Tuesday which said that the fraternity is deeply saddened by the death of Tyler, who was initiated in October 2022 and expresses its deepest condolences to his friends and family.

“It is our understanding that local police are investigating Luke Tyler’s death, as is done with any death on campus,” the statement read. “We expect all Theta Chi members to cooperate with the authorities. The Fraternity awaits the full results of the investigation.”

Tyler’s family statement ended with a link to the Luke Tyler Memorial Scholarship Fund where people can donate. 

“To honor his life and recognize the kindness he spread in the world, the family asks that you consider donations 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 statement said. 

Phil Weiler, WSU vice president of university marketing and communication, said that the school is “continuing to gather information regarding the claims of hazing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to launch a formal investigation.”

He said that in the meantime, the Office of the Dean of Students is continuing to offer support services to Tyler’s family, friends, classmates and faculty members.

Tyler’s Celebration of Life will take place at the Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Kirkland, WA on March 4.