Authorities Make Ruling on Tragic Accident Involving John Elway

Authorities have issued a ruling on the death of Jeff Sperbeck, John Elway's longtime friend and agent, who passed away in a tragic golf cart accident late last month.

According to the Riverside (Calif.) County Coroner's Bureau, Sperbeck, 62, died of "accidental blunt head trauma" after falling off a golf cart driven by Elway on the night of April 26. The two were part of a group returning from a function at the Madison Club in La Quinta, according to a report from 9News.

Sperbeck was riding on the back of the cart when he fell off, striking his head on the pavement. The group immediately called 9-1-1, but emergency and hospital personnel were unable to save Sperbeck, who was put on life support until his organs could be harvested for donation.

The incident was investigated, and the Riverside County Sheriff's Office concluded there was "nothing to indicate that this is anything more than a tragic accident.”

"There was no swerving or horseplay, according to sources. No one was drunk, according to multiple sources. The cart didn’t hit anything. It had been a smooth ride," 9 News' Mike Klis wrote.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 26: President of football operations John Elway of the Denver Broncos looks on during pre-game before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on December 26, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

In addition to representing Elway since 1990, along with a host of other big-name NFL players, Sperbeck co-founded 7Cellars Winery in 2015 with the Hall of Fame quarterback.

“I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner and agent Jeff Sperbeck," Elway said following Sperbeck's death.

"There are no words to truly express the profound sadness I feel with the sudden loss of someone who has meant so much to me. My heart and deepest sympathies go out to Jeff’s wife, Cori; his children Carly, Sam and Jackson; and everyone who knew and loved him.

"Jeff will be deeply missed for the loyalty, wisdom, friendship and love he brought into my life and the lives of so many others.”