A coroner has released findings into the sudden death of Highlanders and New Zealand Maori back Connor Garden-Bachop.
The 25-year-old was found unresponsive while staying with family in Christchurch in June 2024, a loss that sent shockwaves through the New Zealand rugby community and beyond.
Findings issued this week provide clarity around the circumstances surrounding his death, following a post-mortem examination and specialist medical reviews.
Coroner Mary-Anne Borrowdale confirmed that a post-mortem examination was conducted after Garden-Bachop was found in bed. The report noted an underlying medical condition that may have played a role, with the coroner explaining that “death can occur when the heart develops an abnormal heartbeat and then stops”.
Garden-Bachop had experienced episodic concussion during his playing career, including an incident approximately a month before his death. Forensic pathologist Dr Leslie Anderson also considered whether a seizure may have occurred, but said that with “no seizure history and an abnormal heart”, that scenario was less likely.
The case was referred to a cardiac inherited disease group to assess whether genetic factors were involved. No inherited condition or genetic abnormality was identified.
Garden-Bachop played 36 Super Rugby matches for the Highlanders between 2021 and 2024, represented Canterbury and Wellington at provincial level, and earned two caps for the New Zealand Maori in 2022.
Photo: Joe Allison/Getty Images
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