Veteran lock Hyron Andrews was pronounced dead in tragic circumstances while on tour with the Lions last week, and on the eve of the team’s Champions Cup opener.
Initial reports suggested his death was thought to be due to cardiac arrest, while other statements linked it to an ‘accident’ or ‘fall’ at the hotel.
However, the Lions have now released an official statement into the cause of death.
Hyron ANDREWs’ death found to be caused by an aortic dissection
According to the statement from the Lions, this “dissection most likely occurred on an aortic aneurysm”.
“The French authorities, who conducted the autopsy and, in whose care Hyron’s body currently remains, described the cause of death as ‘a tear in the aorta (due to natural causes), which led to a significant accumulation of blood within the sac surrounding the heart’,” the statement continued.
“The Andrews family asks for respect, privacy and patience during this difficult time as the repatriation process begins.
“A timeline for the return of Hyron’s body to South Africa has not yet been determined. Further information will be communicated when it becomes available and under the guidance of the family.”
Emotional tributes
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen has said the outpouring of support after Andrews’ death was a reflection of a man whose humility and gentle nature brought people together.
“The responses from all over the world to the team’s decision to play speak to the man Hyron was,” he said. “He was a humble, gentle guy who people gravitated towards. He could pull people closer together.
“The team’s decision to play also speaks to the character of the team, the deep care for each other. The willingness to sacrifice self for a greater good,” said Van Rooyen.
“The continuous applause from arrival to departure is something to be proud of and speaks to the values and culture of the community and the team,” he added. “The rugby community showed the world what caring and support looks like and should be.”