The police in France have launched an investigation into the untimely and shocking death of 31-year-old South African rugby star Hyron Andrews.

FRENCH POLICE PROBE HYRON ANDREWS’ DEATH

The French police have launched an investigation into the death of 31-year-old Hyron Andrews, who died on Friday 16 October while on tour with the Lions in France. La Rochelle public prosecutor Arnaud Laraize confirmed told AFP that an investigation had been opened to find the cause of Andrews’ death.

Investigators are reportedly 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 shower was locked from the inside,” according to the prosecutor’s office.

“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,” according to the prosecutor’s office.

WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT HYRON ANDREWS’ PASSING

The Lions confirmed the death of Hyron Andrews in a statement expressing their heartbreak and passing on their condolences to his family. Hyron was believed to have died after a fall at the hotel on the Île de Ré. This was the Lions base ahead of their Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle on Saturday 17 October.

Emergency services were reportedly called to the hotel shortly after 10:20am on Friday. However, attempts to resuscitate the rugby star were unsuccessful.

The Sun reports that Andrews was found unconscious in a shower cubicle at the team’s hotel on the Ile de Re, an island off France’s western coast.

“LIONS SADDENED BY THE PASSING OF STAR LOCK. 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,” read the post.

“Rest in peace, Hyron. You will always be part of our family. ❤️,” read the post.

Take a look at five things to know about Andrews here.