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John Elway Releases Statement On Heartbreaking Fatal Accident

Originally posted on The Spun | By Kameron Duncan | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 9:51 PM ET

John Elway's friend and longtime agent Jeff Sperbeck died over the weekend after falling from the back of a golf cart. Elway, Sperbeck and others were traveling back from a partly after Stagecoach, a country music festival held in the Coachella Valley of California.

The Hall of Fame quarterback was reportedly driving the golf cart at the time of the accent, and Sperbeck died Wednesday. He reportedly hit his head on the asphalt after sitting in the passenger's seat of the golf cart, and was placed on life support.

He died on Wednesday as a result of injuries sustained from the accident.

TMZ reported that the Riverside County Sheriff's Office is investigating the matter, but that there is no indication that negligence from Elway led to the accident.

On Wednesday evening, Elway issued a statement reflecting on the passing of his longtime friend and business partner.

Statement from John Elway:
“I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner and agent Jeff Sperbeck. 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… pic.twitter.com/idRixJ29Az
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 30, 2025

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

"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.”

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Executive vice president and general manager John Elway of the Denver Broncos is recognized during the pregame ceremony as his jersey number is retired before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sports Authority Field Field at Mile High on September 18, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

Elway was a college football star at Stanford before turning pro in 1983. Denver selected him with the first overall pick that year, looking to turn the franchise around.

He played his entire 16-year career with the Denver Broncos, winning back-to-back Super Bowls against the Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons in the late 1990s.

After retirement, Elway would become a part of the Broncos' front office. The former quarterback held several positions for Denver after the conclusion of his playing career, including general manager, executive vice president and consultant.

Rest in peace to Jeff Sperbeck. Our condolences are extended to his friends, family and loved ones during this difficult time.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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