Illinois State Swimming Champion Jake Miller Found Dead Friday

Photo Courtesy: Sandstein

NORMAL – A severe bout of depression plagued Illinois state high school champion Jake Miller, and it is believed to be the cause of the University High School senior’s death Friday.

Miller, who was headed to the University of Louisville in the fall, committed suicide, the family confirmed through ISU Lab Schools Superintendent Jeff Hill Saturday.

In an article in the Bloomington Pantagraph today, Hill described Miller as “a good student” and “very well-liked by the student body.” He was instrumental in helping University High School win the boys’ state team title last March, thanks in no small part to a state record time of 1:48.08, breaking the 13-year-old state record. Miller also won the 500 free with a 4:28.36.

Miller, 18, was an Olympic Trials qualifier in the 400 IM with a 4:26.04 at the NCSA long course junior nationals while representing Redbird Swim Club.

Miller would lower his lifetime best in the short course 200 IM to 1:47.47 at the NCSA junior national championships for sixth place. He also posted 3:50.36 in the 400 IM at the meet for fifth place.

Men’s 400 IM final at 2014 spring NCSA juniors (Jake Miller in lane eight):

Men’s 200 IM final at 2014 spring NCSA juniors (Jake Miller in lane eight):

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kal

9 years ago

For anyone suffering from depression, I recommend the http://destroydepression.com system.
Written by a former depression sufferer, it teaches 7 steps which help to eliminate depression from your life.

9 years ago

While I am sure the person who posted the message above has the best of intentions, depression is not something that can simply be “destroyed” nor can someone “banish” depression in 7-steps by purchasing a $17 book that will teach him/her how to take control of his or her thoughts, feelings and emotions. Depression is an illness that must be treated by someone, namely a mental health professional. If you are feeling depressed and need someone to talk to, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. There are trained counselors available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

Willswim4food

9 years ago

How incredibly sad! Just mystifying given all that Jake had accomplished. He should have been on top of the world. I feel so sorry for his parents, who were doubtless proud beyond words. Coping with their loss will be the hardest thing they’ve ever done. Just know you are in so many thoughts, and Jake is at peace.