Update, 4:15 p.m.: FAU head coach Carl Pelini's resignation after one-and-a-half seasons was due to his use of "illegal drugs," confirmed AD Patrick Chun.
"It is a heartbreaking day for us all," Chun said at a press conference this afternoon, announcing the resignations of Pelini and defensive coordinator Pete Rekstis. OC Brian Wright will take over as interim coach.
A brief statement from Pelini was read at the presser: "I apologize for exercising poor judgement."
Chun went into a bit of detail on how this came about. Two people came forward about the incident, Chun consulted the university's general counsel, then confronted Pelini and Rekstis. They admitted the drug use, Chun said, then immediately offered to resign. But, hey, this is kind of weird:
Below is our story from before Chun's press conference.
Earlier today, Florida Atlantic head coach Carl Pelini abruptly resigned, along with an assistant. Pelini's been a lightning rod for bizarre rumors throughout his career, but this one has everybody scratching their heads.
First, reports of police activity at the football facility:
Then, what sounds like a total lockdown in the athletics office:
And then, just a few minutes ago, ESPN's Brett McMurphy had the first report of what might be behind Pelini's resignation, and it truly does not make a lot of sense.
FAU will be holding a press conference in a few minutes, one which will not be attended by Pelini. We'll update as we learn more.