French authorities have launched an investigation into the death of Lions lock Hyron Andrews.
According to SA Rugby, the 31-year-old died on Friday morning following a fall at the hotel on the Île de Ré, where the Lions were staying ahead of Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle.
La Rochelle public prosecutor Arnaud Laraize confirmed to AFP that an investigation had been opened to establish the cause of Andrews’ death. Investigators are currently treating the incident as a suspected accident, with an autopsy set to be conducted.
“He was found unresponsive in a shower cubicle located in the hotel’s spa area,” the prosecutor’s office said. “The shower was locked from the inside.
“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.”
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Emergency services were called to the hotel shortly after 10:20am on Friday, but attempts to resuscitate Andrews were unsuccessful.
The Lions have confirmed they will fulfil Saturday’s fixture against La Rochelle, with the players and management collectively deciding to take the field in honour of their teammate.
A moment’s silence will also be observed before every Champions Cup and Challenge Cup match this weekend in memory of Andrews.
Repose en paix, Hyron Andrews
#InvestecChampionsCup https://t.co/s20HtwOgeo
— Investec Champions Cup France (@ChampionsCup_FR) October 16, 2026
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