French police have opened an investigation into the death of South African rugby player Hyron Andrews, who died while on tour with the Lions in France at the age of 31.
Andrews was found unresponsive on Friday, 16 October, at the team’s hotel on the Ile de Re, where the Lions were staying before their Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle on Saturday, 17 October.
La Rochelle public prosecutor Arnaud Laraize confirmed to AFP that an investigation had been launched to establish the cause of death. Investigators are treating the incident as a suspected accident and an autopsy is expected to take place.
The prosecutor’s office said Andrews was discovered in a shower cubicle in the hotel’s spa area.
“He was found unresponsive in a shower cubicle located in the hotel’s spa area. The shower was locked from the inside,” it said.
“There are no signs of violence on his body, and the involvement of a third party is not currently considered a likely scenario. An investigation into the cause of death has been entrusted to the gendarmerie.”
Emergency services were called to the hotel shortly after 10:20am on Friday, but attempts to resuscitate Andrews were unsuccessful.
The Lions said Andrews was believed to have died after a fall at the hotel on the island off France’s western coast. The Sun also reported that the player had been found unconscious in a shower cubicle at the team’s accommodation.
The club confirmed his death in a statement expressing its grief and offering condolences to his family.
“It is with broken hearts that we mourn the passing of Hyron Andrews, a valued member of our Lions family. Our deepest condolences are with Maiglin, Hendrix, Emerson and the entire Andrews family during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement said.
“Rest in peace, Hyron. You will always be part of our family. ❤️”
Andrews’ death occurred as the Lions prepared for their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle. The investigation will now focus on determining the circumstances in which he died, with no indication from the prosecutor’s office that a third party was involved.
