- Hyron Andrews, 31, was found unconscious at his team's hotel in France during a pre-match trip
- Medical findings point to a serious underlying condition involving a major blood vessel near his heart
- French authorities had been investigating the circumstances before the autopsy results were made public
South African rugby lock Hyron Andrews died from natural causes after suffering an aortic dissection, an autopsy has confirmed.
Source: Facebook
The findings were shared in a statement released by his club, the Lions of Johannesburg, on behalf of Andrews' family.
What were the autopsy findings?
The examination revealed that Andrews, who was 31 years old, sustained a tear in his aorta, the large artery responsible for carrying blood away from the heart.
Doctors determined the tear most likely developed within an existing bulge in the aorta, a section of the artery wall that had weakened and expanded over time.
The rupture triggered severe internal bleeding around his heart, disrupting its ability to function and ultimately causing his death.
Andrews was discovered unresponsive in a shower cubicle at the Lions' hotel on the French island of Île de Ré on Friday, October 16.
Emergency responders attended to him and attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Lions had travelled to southwest France to prepare for a European Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.
The match proceeded as scheduled the following day, with a minute of silence observed in Andrews' memory. His No. 5 jersey was laid out on the field as a tribute before kick-off.
French authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death before the autopsy results were finalised.
A former Junior Springbok, Andrews had built his career as a lock, including two and a half seasons with English club Sale Sharks.
He had recently returned to South Africa to join the Lions ahead of the 2026–27 season.
See the post below:
Fans mourn Andrews
Tributes from supporters and members of the public poured in following news of his passing.
Lorna Austin wrote:
"Sending love and light ❤️ 💕".
Rosemary Hoffman added:
"So very sad. Condolences to his wife children and family and rugby community. RIP 🙏 🙏🙏".
Darren Whittaker reflected:
"Happens all the time, remember, especially on sports fields, remember RIP. "
What happened to Cléa Menier?
TUKO.co.ke also highlighted facts about Cléa Menier, a 17-year-old French rugby player who died after suffering a serious injury during an under-18s club match.
Menier collapsed on the pitch and was taken to hospital in Bordeaux for emergency treatment, but died four days later. France’s rugby federation announced tributes at matches nationwide and psychological support for her teammates, coaches and family.
Source: TUKO.co.ke