An autopsy report has revealed the tragic final moments of former college swimming coach Jack Roney after he died at the age of 39 over the Fourth of July weekend.
Roney, who was the former assistant coach of the North Carolina State swim team, passed away on July 5, just weeks after his 15th wedding anniversary.
No cause of death had been released to the public at the time, however, Roney’s close friend shared that he had died in a ‘tragic accident.’
Just over a month on from the ordeal, a harrowing autopsy report has now revealed that Roney had been practicing underwater breathing exercises while visiting a pool with his wife, Maresa, when the incident occurred.
According to US Weekly, Roney had gone under the water surface for over two minutes before coming up for air and then submerging himself again.
During this time, wife Maresa walked away to make a brief phone call, before returning five minutes later and finding her husband unresponsive in the water.
An autopsy report has revealed the tragic final moments of former college coach Jack Roney
Roney had been practicing breathing exercises while visiting a pool with his wife, Maresa
According to the autopsy report: ‘Wife told medics her husband was an avid swimmer and on that evening, he had been doing some breathing exercises [and] holding his breath underwater.
‘Wife pulled him from the water and called 911… then began CPR. There were no concerns for suicide, substance abuse or foul play.
‘No trauma was noted. Law enforcement was reviewing footage of the incident. Due to the circumstances of the death, pathology at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner was consulted and the case was accepted there for autopsy.’
Local first responders administered CPR on Roney while he was being transported to the hospital. However, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Meanwhile, a separate statement from the medical examiner revealed that the former assistant coach of the North Carolina State swim team ‘had a history of ADHD.’
The statement said: ‘He was last known to be alive the evening of July 5, 2026, when he and his wife went to their community pool following dinner.
‘Upon emergency responder arrival, he was in pulseless electrical activity, and they continued resuscitative efforts for approximately one hour.’
The school’s swimming and diving team announced the tragic news in a social media post on July 6, saying: ‘Our thoughts and prayers are with the Roney family during this difficult time. His impact on our program and community will be remembered.’
He is survived by wife Maresa and their five children, Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer and Crew
Roney is survived by his wife, Maresa, and their five children, Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer and Crew.
He left NC State as the program record holder for the 200-yard breaststroke – his record has since been broken – and served as an assistant coach during the 2014-16 seasons, according to Herald Online.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page set up for the family read: ‘Just days after celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary, Maresa lost her husband, Jack Roney.
‘Jack was a true Wolfpacker, a man of Christ, and a beloved father, friend, and husband. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and the love he shared with his family and community.
‘Now, Maresa faces the unimaginable challenge of raising her children alone. The loss of Jack has left a void in their lives, and the family is navigating a new reality without his guidance and support. As Maresa works to provide for her children, she needs help with daily expenses, childcare, and ensuring her kids have the opportunity to pursue their education and dreams.
‘Jack and Maresa have always been there for others, offering friendship, kindness, and support. In this difficult time, we have the chance to give back and show our love for this incredible family. Your generosity will help Maresa and her children find hope and stability as they move forward, always honoring their husband and father. Please consider supporting them and sharing this fundraiser with others who care.’
