Investigators: Chad Rogers died of natural causes

The Liberty Police Department said it has wrapped up its investigation into the death of runner Chad Rogers and determined that there was no foul play involved.

The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office said Rogers died of natural causes and attributed the death to valvular heart disease and a combination of heart-related factors.

A toxicology report showed no evidence of drug use.

Those close to Rogers said they are grateful to be able to put an end to the questions and speculation surrounding his death.

Rogers was reported missing after he went for a run on July 22 and didn’t return. Members of the community spent the next four days scouring the area for him.

He was found inside a portable bathroom near South Valley Junior High School four days later.

Friend and fellow runner Tim Fritson said he thinks the coroner’s report explains why Rogers was found there.

“Gases build up in their body, so they feel like they need to go to the bathroom,” he said. “He probably started to not feel good, went to use the bathroom and that’s where his cardiac arrest occurred.”

Chad Rogers’ father said he simply believes it was his son’s time.

“I’m totally convinced that we all have a timeline, and his timeline was 30 years, nine months and some days,” said Greg Rogers.

He said his son was diagnosed with a heart murmur when he was young, but doctors never encouraged him to scale back running and other exercise. He said it was always encouraged.

Liberty police said that they have closed the case.

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