Archie Bruce’s first autopsy results revealed

Archie Bruce’s initial autopsy results have revealed that the Batley Bulldogs player died of asphyxia, reports in France have claimed.

The 20-year-old was found dead in his hotel room in Toulouse on Sunday morning, just hours after making his professional debut for the Bulldogs in their loss to Toulouse in the Championship.

According to French news outlet France Info, the first autopsy was performed on Monday, with initial results showing Bruce died of asphyxia – which is when the body is deprived of oxygen.

The post-mortem examination is, however, still ongoing.

The majority of the Batley squad arrived back in England on Sunday night after delaying their return home, however coach Matt Diskin stayed in France to be with Bruce’s family, who travelled to Toulouse following the sudden death of their son.

Following the youngster’s death at the weekend, club chairman Kevin Nicholas said: “Batley Bulldogs are greatly saddened to announce the passing of their player Archie Bruce who was found in his hotel bedroom early this morning having made his debut against Toulouse the previous evening.

“Archie’s immediate family have been informed.

“Batley Bulldogs, the RFL and the RFL Benevolent Fund will be supporting the family while inquiries by the French authorities continue, with the club squad delaying their return to the UK.

“The Bruce family have requested privacy during this most difficult of times.”