Chase Stegall, Son of Former NFL Star Milton Stegall, Cause of Death Revealed

A cause of death has been revealed for Chase Stegall, the son of former NFL star Milton Stegall, who died unexpectedly at age 20 in June.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to PEOPLE that Stegall’s cause of death was “sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.”

The manner of death is classified as natural, per the examiner.

News of Stegall’s death was shared on June 2 in the DePaul school newspaper, the DePaulia, and by DePaul President Rob Manuel in an email to faculty, staff and students.

“Chase was known for his warmth, strength of character, and vibrant presence — qualities that touched the lives of many both on and off the field,” Manuel said, per the DePaulia.

“His loss is deeply felt by his teammates, coaches, classmates, faculty, staff, and all who knew him. We extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies to Chase’s family, friends, and loved ones,” he added.

Born in Atlanta, Ga., Stegall was a sophomore midfielder for DePaul. He played in 16 of DePaul’s 17 games this past season, according to the school’s website, adding that details regarding a memorial service will be announced when available.

Stegall is survived by his parents, Milton and Darlene Stegall, and his brother Collin. 

His father played 17 years of professional football; three years in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals and 14 years in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. In 2012, Milton was inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame.

The DePaul Blue Demons said in June that they were “devastated” by the passing of their “brother,” in a statement on Instagram. “Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends and everyone who knew him and loved him. He will forever be a Blue Demon,” they said.

DePaul’s vice president and director of athletics, DeWayne Peevy, and head coach, Mark Plotkin, issued a joint statement at the time, saying, “We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Chase Stegall, a cherished member of our community, dedicated teammate and kind-hearted friend.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Chase’s family, friends, teammates and all who loved him. In the coming days, we will support Chase’s family and teammates through this devastating time. His loss will be deeply felt across our entire Athletics and university family and his memory will forever be a part of DePaul University,” the statement concluded.