DNA Testing Underway to Confirm Heart Belonging to Australian Man Who Died in Bali
DNA analysis is currently being conducted to determine whether a heart returned to Australia is indeed that of Byron Haddow, a 23-year-old Queensland man who died while vacationing in Bali. Haddow was found dead in the plunge pool of his villa in May 2025. When his body was repatriated to Australia four weeks later, a second autopsy revealed that his heart was missing.
The family’s legal representative in Bali, Ni Luh Arie Ratna Sukasari, has stated that there is a “possibility” the heart returned may not be Haddow’s. The heart was sent to Queensland for DNA testing to verify its identity. “The family insists on certainty, full transparency, and dignity for their son,” she said.
Concerns and Allegations Surrounding the Missing Heart
The circumstances surrounding the removal and delayed return of Haddow’s heart have raised serious questions. The Bali hospital that performed the autopsy, Prof. Ngoerah Hospital, has denied any involvement in organ theft. I Made Darmajaya, the hospital’s director of medical nursing and support, emphasized that the hospital conducted the forensic autopsy upon request from local police and dismissed rumors of organ theft as false.
He explained that the heart was repatriated separately from the rest of Haddow’s body because of legal and pathological examination requirements, which delayed its return. However, Ni Luh Arie Ratna Sukasari countered that a further autopsy on the heart was performed in Bali without the family’s knowledge or consent, and that the hospital demanded an additional payment of A$700 for the heart’s repatriation. The family and their legal team are demanding a thorough and independent police investigation into Haddow’s death, along with clear explanations regarding the handling of his body and the removal of his heart.
Family’s Distress and Demand for Justice
Byron Haddow’s parents, Robert and Chantal Haddow, have expressed devastation not only over the loss of their son but also due to the way his remains were handled after death. They have described the treatment as inhumane and feel that the handling of their son’s body has compounded their grief. Despite their sorrow, they remain committed to pursuing justice and uncovering the full truth behind the circumstances of Byron’s death and the subsequent handling of his organs.
Byron’s mother has shared that she has “so many questions” but has not provided further comments at this time.
Australian Government Response
A spokesperson from the Australian foreign ministry confirmed that consular assistance is being provided to the Haddow family. However, citing privacy considerations, authorities have declined to offer additional comments.
Ongoing Investigation Raises Broader Questions
The return of the heart to Queensland in August has brought to light concerns about medical and procedural practices related to autopsies and repatriation of remains in Bali. The incident underscores the need for transparency and strict adherence to ethical standards in forensic examinations, especially when foreign nationals are involved.
As DNA test results are awaited, Haddow’s family and their legal team continue to call for clarity, accountability, and respect in the investigation of their son’s tragic death and the handling of his remains.
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