By MAX WINTERS

The death of Jeff Sperbeck, a business partner and former agent for NFL Hall of Famer John Elway, after falling off a golf cart on Saturday appeared to be a ‘horrific accident’ that didn’t involve criminal activity.

That is the verdict of Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, whose agency is investigating the incident.

Sperbeck, 62, died on Wednesday at a Southern California golfing community after reportedly falling off of the back of a golf cart that Elway was driving.

Bianco told the Denver Post that Sperbeck’s death was a ‘horrific accident,’ and added that medical personnel at the scene have not found any evidence that Elway was under the influence of alcohol.

‘And unfortunately for all of those involved, one of the people – well, a couple of them – happen to be very high-profile celebrities,’ Bianco added. ‘And that makes this more of an issue than it probably should be,’ he said.

Elway later released a statement saying he was ‘absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner and agent Jeff Sperbeck.

John Elway's longtime friend and agent died over the weekend after falling off a golf cart

John Elway’s longtime friend and agent died over the weekend after falling off a golf cart

‘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.’

Elway, who played his whole career on the Denver Broncos, has hired lawyer Harvey Steinberg, according to Fox.

Steinberg has previously represented others in the sports world, such as former Broncos Matt Prater and Elvis Dumervil. 

In a statement shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Steinberg said it had ‘been a terrible time for everyone involved’ and that  investigation has confirmed what we already knew: this was a tragic accident and sometimes things happen in life that we will never comprehend.’

The legendary quarterback was driving a golf cart with Sperbeck and their wives aboard. near The Madison Club after attending the Stagecoach music festival.

Following Sperbeck’s ultimately fatal fall, Elway called 911 himself, according to TMZ, before paramedics arrived. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection responded to the call.

More to follow. 

:
Major update in fatal golf cart accident which killed John Elway’s ex-agent as NFL icon hires prominent sports lawyer

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