He was famously drafted by Hawthorn in the 2000 Rookie Draft, but didn't make his AFL debut until 2004 when he was redrafted by Richmond as a mature-age recruit through the 2003 National Draft.
Hawthorn released a brief statement on Monday afternoon to extend their condolences to the Tuck family.
"On behalf of the Tuck family, the Hawthorn Football Club is deeply saddened to inform the football community of the passing of Shane Tuck," the statement said.
"Shane passed away this morning at the age of 38.
"Hawthorn Football Club and the entire football community extend their deepest condolences to the Tuck family and ask that their privacy is respected during this time."
Richmond also released a statement from chief executive Ben Gale.
"We're incredibly saddened by the news of Shane's passing, he will be missed enormously by everyone," Gale said.
"We send our deepest condolences to Shane's family and loved ones – his wife Kat, children Will and Ava, parents Michael and Fay, and the extended Tuck family.
"Shane was a warrior on the field, giving everything to the team each week, and a humble, fun-loving person off the field."
The tragedy has devastated footy commentators.
WHERE TO GET HELP:
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