Authorities have provided updates regarding the tragic golf cart accident involving John Elway that occurred on April 26, 2025, in La Quinta, California. The incident resulted in the death of Jeff Sperbeck, Elway’s longtime friend, business partner, and former agent.
Here’s a summary of the announced updates
- The Incident: Jeff Sperbeck, 62, reportedly fell from a golf cart driven by John Elway.
- Timeline: The accident happened on April 26th. Sperbeck was hospitalized and passed away on May 1st in a Palm Springs hospital.
- Cause of Death: The Riverside County coroner determined the cause of death to be blunt force trauma, ruling it an accident. The report indicated that Sperbeck fell while riding as a passenger.
- Details Emerge: Elway and Sperbeck were part of a group leaving a private function at the Madison Club in La Quinta. They were traveling in a caravan of three or four golf carts to Elway’s nearby home.
- Passengers: Elway was driving one of the carts with his girlfriend and Sperbeck’s wife, Cori, in the front. Sperbeck and TV personality Johnny Devenanzio (Johnny Bananas) were riding in the back of the same cart.
- No Impairment or Recklessness: Sources indicate there was no swerving, horseplay, or signs of intoxication. The golf cart did not hit anything; it was described as a smooth ride. Sperbeck reportedly fell straight backward, hitting his head.
- Investigation Status: While authorities initially considered it a tragic accident, the investigation remains open. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is awaiting potential video footage from additional residents in the area before officially closing the case, as advised by the District Attorney’s Office.
- Elway’s Reaction: Elway released a statement expressing his devastation and heartbreak at the loss of his close friend and business partner.
It’s important to note that while the authorities are keeping the investigation open to review all potential evidence, all indications point towards this being a tragic accident.
Regarding John Elway’s health, separate from this incident, it’s known that he has been managing a condition called Dupuytren’s contracture, a hand condition affecting the ability to straighten fingers fully. He has spoken publicly about this condition and the treatments he has received. There have been no recent reports suggesting any other health issues for Mr. Elway.
