Sheriff's Dept: Former Rabbi died of natural causes

The former Central Coast Rabbi who died on Saturday, passed away of natural causes, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department.

Rabbi Scott Corngold, 49, formerly of Temple Beth David in San Luis Obispo, was found dead in his car near his home in Avila Beach. A forensic pathologist assigned to the case determined Corngold died as a result of a pulmonary embolism.

The Sheriff's Department said Corngold experienced early signs of the event while at his home, and may have been trying to get help when he was in his car. A pulmonary embolism can cause confusion, however, details of where he was headed are unclear. When he was found in his car he was unresponsive with the flashers on.

Corngold had been rabbi for more than two years when he resigned just a few days before his death.

The Sheriff's Department has ruled out the possibility of foul play or suicide. Toxicology results are pending.