Mike Leach dies at 61: 'RIP' trend sparks confusion after Mississippi State coach's 'massive' heart attack

Mike Leach dies at 61: 'RIP' trend sparks confusion after Mississippi State coach's 'massive' heart attack
Mike Leach was collapsed at his Starkville home (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

UPDATE: Mike Leach died at the age of 61 on December 12, his family confirmed.

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STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI: Mississippi State coach Mike Leach is in critical condition after suffering a 'massive' heart attack and rushed to the University of Mississippi Medical Center on Sunday, December 11, as per reports. However, a tweet mourning Leach's death sparked confusion online with 'RIP Mike Leach' trending on Twitter.

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The since-deleted tweet by Bill Snyder, a retired college football coach and former player, paid tribute to Leach, saying, "Truly saddened by the death of a good friend and a special man. Mike Leach will always remain special in my heart and the hearts of many. Not only a unique and talented coach, but one who taught life lessons to so many young men whose lives he changed for the better. Rest in Peace." However, after realizing his gaffe, Snyder apologized for his tweet, saying, "I'm now told that Mike has not passed. Brings warmth to my heart. And I apologize for my premature tweet. Please forgive me and continue your prayers for Mike and his family." A user tweeted screenshots of Snyder's deleted tweets, saying, "'RIP Mike Leach' is trending because this guy jumped the gun."