New Times / News

Stevenson toxicology report released

BY MATT FOUNTAIN

The death of embattled former Cal Poly volleyball team coach Jon Stevenson has been ruled an accident, according to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.

Stevenson, who was 54 and a resident of Pismo Beach, was found in a Van Nuys household on June 24.

According to L.A. County Coroner Ed Winter, Stevenson’s cause of death was acute multiple prescription drug intoxication. Winter relayed that the report indicated Stevenson had a history of heart issues, depression, and chronic pain.

He did not say what prescription medication is suspected to have caused his death, but added it’s believed to have been an accident.

Stevenson came to Cal Poly in February 2005 and, during his six-season stint as head coach, led the team to a 115-61 overall record and a win at the Big West Conference in 2006.

He was removed as coach in September 2011 and later resigned after his student athletes accused Stevenson of harassment and inappropriate behavior.

Prior to his arrival at Cal Poly, he coached at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, Calif., and was named NCAA Division “Coach of the Year” by VBall Magazine in 2004.

Stevenson was replaced by Sam Crosson, who remains the Cal Poly coach.