Report: John Elway will be cleared in golf cart accident that killed Jeff Sperbeck

A fatal golf cart accident took the life of Jeff Sperbeck in April. Sperbeck was a longtime friend and business partner of legendary quarterback John Elway. Police were investigating to see if Elway had any connection to the death, and now, a final determination appears to be on the horizon.

Riverside County law enforcement has closed the investigation regarding Sperbeck’s death. Elway is expected to be cleared of any criminal activity in the incident. Police say Sperbeck just fell off the back of the golf course, suffering “blunt force head trauma.”

“It’s over,’’ Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco said via 9NEWS in Denver. “We’ve talked to everyone involved and we found nothing new. There was nothing criminal, it was what we’ve been saying all along that this was a tragic accident.”

The incident took place on April 28 inside a gated community. Elway was the one driving the golf court and Sperbeck was on the back. Driving out of the Madison Club, the moment occurred when they were heading back to Elway’s home.

9NEWS gathered more information, saying nobody involved was drunk. Everything considered, just a normal ride on a golf cart. It’s something the police described as a “freak accident” to tragically take away Sperbeck’s life.

“There was no swerving or horseplay, according to sources,” 9NEWS said. “No one was drunk, according to multiple sources. The cart didn’t hit anything. It had been a smooth ride. Indications were that Sperbeck fell straight back and hit his head immediately. He had no other injuries, according to a source.”

Elway and Sperbeck were business partners throughout the years. They started 7Cellars wine together in 2013 and work together with Elway restaurants. Sperbeck has been an NFL agent to more than 100 players, coaches and executives.

Elway, 64, won two Super Bowls during his 16-year career with the Denver Broncos. He served as the team’s general manager from 2011-2020. He became director of football operations in 2021 before transitioning to a consultant role until his contract expired in March 2023.

“I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner and agent Jeff Sperbeck,” Elway said in a previous statement. “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.”

5GOAT’s Nick Geddes contributed to this report