Cal sophomore defensive back Turner, 19, dies

Player collapsed during non-team workout near home last week

Cal defensive back Bryce Turner, a redshirt sophomore from Lakewood in Los Angeles County, has died, the school announced Saturday.

“We are so deeply saddened by Bryce’s passing," head football coach Justin Wilcox said in a statement. “This is an extremely difficult day for everyone. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Bryce’s family, friends, teammates and so many others who have been a part of his life. No words can accurately describe the pain we feel in our hearts right now. We’ll always remember Bryce and how he impacted all of us with Cal football.”

Turner, 19, endured an undisclosed “medical emergency” during a non-team workout a week ago and had since been hospitalized near his Southern California home, according to a team statement Thursday. The cause of death is unknown.

News of the death of the former St. John Bosco Prep standout began trickling through social media channels Saturday as friends and teammates offered their thoughts and condolences.

Cal running back Alex Netherda wrote: “Rest in peace, my brother. The warmth, energy and laughter you brought with you will not quickly fade.”

Cornerback Traveon Beck, who played with Turner at both St. John Bosco and Cal, wrote: “Man, tears won’t stop falling as I type this. … Words can’t explain how I feel, but I love you, brother. Never would I have thought I’d have to bury one of my best friends. See you in heaven.”

Bosco went 41-3 while Turner was playing in 2013-15, and he helped Long Beach City College to a 9-2 record in 2016. The 5-foot-10, 180-pounder redshirted at Berkeley in 2017 and had a tackle against Idaho State in his debut this season.

“Our hearts are broken with this unimaginable tragedy,” Cal athletic director Jim Knowlton said. “Bryce was a young man with a bright future and a valued member of our football team and the Cal family. His life was taken far too soon and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bryce’s family, friends, teammates and coaches during this difficult time, and we will do all that we can to support each other, his family, our students and the entire Cal community through the grieving process.”

Rusty Simmons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rsimmons@sfchronicle. com Twitter: @Rusty_SFChron