The public prosecutor of La Rochelle, Arnaud Laraize, confirmed to AFP that he had opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

He noted that an accidental death was currently the primary line of enquiry, before confirming that an autopsy would be carried out.

"He was found unresponsive in a shower cubicle located in the hotel's spa area," stated the La Rochelle prosecutor's office to French media. "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."

"This is terrible and distressing news; our hearts go out to Hyron's family and the whole Lions rugby community," said Mr Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union.

"There are no words to adequately convey our shock and the depth of sympathy we feel for his wife Maighlin, and for his extended family, friends, teammates and loved ones during this time of immense sorrow.

"Hyron was a respected member of the rugby community whose contribution to the game and impact on those around him will be remembered with great fondness.

"His untimely passing is a devastating loss, and we share in the grief of all who knew and loved him.

"The thoughts and prayers of the entire South African rugby family are with Maighlin and all those mourning his loss. May they find strength, comfort and peace in the memories they shared with him and in the support of those around them."

Having begun his senior career at the Durban-based Sharks, he made the move to Sale Sharks in February 2024 as injury cover for England international lock Jonny Hill, going on to make 45 appearances for the Gallagher Prem side.

Tributes to Andrews paid

Sale's director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, paid tribute to Andrews on Friday. "Hyron was just a brilliant guy and a brilliant team-mate. He was so skilled on the field but off it, he was always someone you would want to have a beer with," he said.

"He was funny and charismatic in his own unique, dry way and the lads, to a man, loved playing with him and being around him.

"It was a big move for Hyron and his wife Maighlin to come to England but he truly made a second home in Manchester and it was incredible to see how he and his family embraced the club and area.

"Most importantly, he was a loving husband to Maighlin and a doting father to his two gorgeous boys. It was an absolute privilege to get to know him and it's just absolutely devastating for everyone."

In a statement, the Gallagher Prem said: "Everyone at PREM Rugby and our clubs is deeply saddened by the passing of Hyron Andrews and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends.

"Our thoughts are also with Hyron's teammates past and present, everyone at the Lions and Sale Sharks, and the wider South African rugby community at this very difficult time."

His former Durban-based club, the Sharks, also paid tribute - stating that they joined the Lions and "the greater South African rugby fraternity in mourning a player who gave so much to the game and a man who meant so much to so many".

Their tribute continued: "Hyron arrived in Durban as a youngster with big dreams and for a decade we had the privilege of watching him grow, as a rugby player and as a man. He gave everything to the black and white jersey, but his greatest growth came off the field.

"By the time he left Hollywoodbets Kings Park in 2024, the young man who had first walked through our doors had become a committed family man, with his wife Maighlin by his side and their young son Hendrix. While abroad, their family grew once more with the arrival of their second son, Emerson.

"To everyone at the club, from teammates, coaches and staff, Hyron was never simply a player who wore the jersey. He was a friend, a brother and a much-loved member of the Sharks family and the memories he made here, on and off the field, will stay with us always."

"Hyron arrived here as a young man and left as a proud husband and a father, and that is how he will be remembered, as someone who grew into the very best version of himself while he was with us. We are grateful for the years he gave this club, the friendships he built and the memories he leaves behind.

"Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences is extended to his wife Maighlin, his young sons Hendrix and Emerson and to all of Hyron's family and friends. Please know that you are not alone. The Sharks family stands with you during this difficult time and Hyron will forever remain one of us."