Former Sale and Lions rugby player Hyron Andrews died from natural causes after suffering an aortic tear at a hotel in France.
Hyron Andrews, the 31-year-old former Sale second row found dead at his team hotel in France last Saturday, passed away due to natural causes, according to autopsy results.
The South African rugby player, who recently joined the Johannesburg-based Lions, suffered a tear in his aorta, an essential artery carrying blood from the heart.
Investigators discovered the player unconscious in a shower cubicle before determining the medical cause of death, according to information published by BBC.
Medical cause of death for Hyron Andrews
The tragic rupture in the aorta led to blood filling the muscle sac surrounding the heart of the professional rugby union athlete.
Medical experts explain that a tear in this major artery is a rare and dangerous condition, often triggered by undetected high blood pressure or a congenital birth defect.
Prior to the autopsy confirmation, investigators examined potential scenarios involving a fall, a sudden heart attack, or a fatal aneurysm.
Tributes and emotional Champions Cup matches
Team-mates proceeded with their scheduled European Champions Cup match against La Rochelle in France to honour the late second-row forward.
Visiting players walked onto the pitch in tears while home fans at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre applauded during an emotional minute of silence before kick-off.
Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson shared heartfelt tributes, stating that his former squad loved playing alongside the talented lock during his two and a half seasons.
Repatriation and family statement
The body of the professional rugby player has not yet been returned to his native South Africa following the sudden tragedy.
His grieving wife Maighlin, with whom he shared two young sons, released a public statement requesting privacy and patience during the difficult repatriation process.
The Johannesburg Lions franchise continues to support the family and players as the rugby community processes the devastating loss of the athlete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the cause of death for Hyron Andrews?
An autopsy revealed that Hyron Andrews died of natural causes after suffering a tear in his aorta, which led to blood filling the muscle sac surrounding his heart.
Which rugby teams did Hyron Andrews play for?
Hyron Andrews played as a second row for Sale Sharks in England for two and a half seasons before joining the Johannesburg-based Lions in South Africa.
When and where was Hyron Andrews found dead?
The 31-year-old rugby player was found unconscious in a shower cubicle at his team hotel in France on Saturday before a Champions Cup match against La Rochelle.
What did the family of Hyron Andrews request?
His wife Maighlin requested respect, privacy, and patience from the public and media while the repatriation process to South Africa takes place.
