Ricky Bibey found dead in a hotel room in Florence
The rugby league world is crying death of retired English player Ricky Bibey after he was found dead in a hotel room in Florence alongside a seriously injured woman.
Staff at the Hotel Continentale in Italy found the 40-year-old’s body in his room on Saturday around 8am local time.
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A 43-year-old woman believed to be his companion was rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
Hotel staff told local media they were alerted to the incident by the woman who ‘came out of the room half-naked, covered in blood, screaming for help to neighbors and a housekeeper’ .
MailOnline reports that Bibey suffered a seizure, but the cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Italian media said investigators ordered an autopsy as well as toxicology reports.
“There is blood in the room and forensic teams are working on it at the moment as the woman was taken to hospital for treatment,” a law enforcement source said. MailOnline.
“Her current condition is serious but she is stable and her injuries are not life-threatening. We hope to interview him at some point in the next few hours.
Bibey played 215 games in the British Super League and represented England A in 2002.
He played for St Helens, Wigan Warriors, Wakefield Trinity and Leigh Centurions, winning the Challenge Cup twice.
The rugby league world mourns the death of Ricky Bibey
Wakefield Trinity tweeted: “Trinity is saddened to learn of the passing of 40 year old former striker Ricky Bibey.
“Ricky played for Trinity between 2007 and 2009, making 60 appearances.
“We send our condolences to Ricky’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Leigh East, where Bibey started as a junior, wrote: “All members of the club are saddened to learn of the passing of our former junior Ricky Bibey who passed away on holiday.
“Ricky has played professionally for a number of clubs including Leigh, Wigan, St Helens and Wakefield. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.”
Rugby star Leon Pryce wrote on Twitter: “Heartfelt condolences to Ricky’s family. We have played against each other since we were around 14 years old.
“Yorkshire vs Lancashire and together for English schools boys U16. A big boy. Absolutely devastating news. RIP Ricky.
Rochdale chairman Andy Mazey tweeted: “Terrible news this morning. RIP Ricky and thoughts with Ronny and the Bibey family.”
Bibey retired in 2012 due to an Achilles tendon injury.
Leigh Centurions said on his retirement: “It’s a big loss for us, both on the pitch and around the club. Ricky has had a fantastic career and is a very good professional.
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