Coroner says basketball player had heart condition

Guillaume Hoareau collapsed during a basketball game on 18 May

An inquest has found a Jersey basketball player who died after collapsing on court earlier this year had a serious underlying heart condition.

Guillaume Hoareau, 40, collapsed mid-game during a match between Jersey and Guernsey at Fort Regent on 18 May.

Relief coroner advocate Cyril Whelan found Mr Hoareau had died later the same day in the accident and emergency department of Jersey General Hospital in St Helier.

The cause was ruled to be left dominant arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, a condition that can lead to sudden cardiac death.

The game was stopped immediately and spectators were asked to leave the hall while emergency services treated him.

The Jersey Basketball Association said Mr Houreau was the island's Men's Player and Minis Lead Coach.

Following his death, the association described him as "our friend, our brother, and the lifeblood of our community".