Autopsy confirms Paarl-born Lions rugby star Hyron Andrews died from a tear in his aorta

An autopsy conducted by French authorities confirmed that Hyron Andrews died from a tear in his aorta, caused by natural causes, which led to a significant accumulation of blood around his heart. The 31-year-old Lions player and former Junior Springbok died in France on October 16, the eve of the team’s Champions Cup match against La Rochelle. His body remains in the care of French authorities as arrangements begin to repatriate him to South Africa, with no timeline yet set. His family has asked for respect, privacy and patience during the process.