Cullen Finnerty, College QB Found Dead: Several Day Search Effort with Laker Players, Coaches, and Staff Members Leads to "Chilling" Tragic Death [VIDEO]

By Staff Reporter | May 29, 2013 10:19 AM EDT

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Three days after disappearing, Cullen Finnerty was found dead in northern Michigan woods Tuesday night. He had been out fishing with his family when the tragic event occurred.

The 30-year-old will be remembered for winning more than 50 games and three Division II national titles as a starting quarterback at Grand Valley State in 2003, 2005, and 2006. The cause of his death is still awaiting autopsy results, but authorities do not suspect that there is malicious intent involved and that it was perhaps caused by a mental breakdown.

Lake County Sheriff Robert Hilts blames the incident on the fishing spot, saying "This is the last river that I'd pick to fish... And it's very a very tough river to navigate."

The body was found in the woods, and not in the river.

Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly said, "It's very chilling. He led me to a national championship as a true freshman. When I left, coach Martin took over and won two more national championships. My heart goes out to the family and to his beautiful wife. We're just praying and hoping and sending all of our thoughts and wishes to their family."

Grand Valley coach Matt Mitchell was helping with the search efforts hwen he says, "He's held in very high regard. He was the starting quarterback on national championship teams. But he's more than that: He's one of the most loyal teammates we've ever had."

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