A former professional rugby league player has died after being found unresponsive in a prison cell in Queensland.
Lui Matalio Dylan (Dee) Tiaaleaiga, 30, had played for the Newcastle Knights in 2011.
A statement form the family thanked people “for all the love that has poured in for Dee”.
Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) confirmed that Tiaaleaiga died at hospital after being found unresponsive in his cell at the Maryborough Correctional Centre on Wednesday.
He was in a single occupancy cell. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
His family was reportedly by his side in hospital when he passed.
Once a rising league star, the Fraser Coast Chronicle said it was understood he turned to crime in his mid-20s.
He previously escaped custody in Rockhampton.
QCS has said it will assist police with the preparation of the coroner’s report.
“Our condolences go to the man’s family and friends,” a QCS spokeswoman said.
The newspaper has reported that the circumstances of his death are not being treated as suspicious but medial in nature.
His family were able to be by his bedside as he died.
“The family would like to thank everyone for all the love that has poured in for Dee and would appreciate some privacy at this difficult time while they grieve and make arrangements for Dee’s memorial,” Tiaaleaiga’s partner Lana Gray said in a statement.
As well as playing league, Tiaaleaiga was also a mixed martial arts fighter.
MMA coach Nathan O’Connor wrote on social media that Tiaaleaiga “only every brought love and respect into our clubs”.
“It was an honour to be your coach and friend and to have you as part of our family.
“You were born 200 years too late, you were built for warfare and protecting the village, and that’s the you I only ever saw.
“I promise I will tell them of the good you did and love and respect you showed as a warrior and student so they know you were much more than your dark side.”
Tiaaleaiga grew up in the Rockhampton area. He fell foul of the law with various drug and driving offences after a number of deaths of family members.
He was arrested in August 2019.
Tiaaleaiga was convicted of two road rage assaults and the armed robbery of a bottle shop as well as brawl after a rugby match.
He also escaped police custody after being treated at Rockhampton Hospital.
He spent time in three different prisons.
