Calls for more defibrillators follow second sudden death in same family

A LEADING heart doctor has said defibrillators should be available at all sporting venues following the sudden death of a second member of the same family during a soccer game.

Michael Byrne, 29, who only started playing soccer after his brother Ken died last year, collapsed while playing for his club, River Rangers, on Sunday morning.

Mr Byrne’s sudden death has once again led to calls for the increased availability of defibrillators, a device that could save lives if used correctly and immediately on a person who has suffered a heart attack on a sports field.