Former AFL star Mark Hutchings announces death of wife two days after giving birth

Former AFL star Mark Hutchings has announced the tragic death of his wife Hannah following the birth of their baby daughter.

Hannah had given birth to their daughter Sofia just two days before her death, with Hutchings revealing it had been her dream to become a mum.

The ex-West Coast Eagles player shared a heartbreaking statement alongside a photo of the pair during a beachfront pregnancy shoot.

The 35-year-old, who was part of West Coast's 2018 AFL premiership team, went on to thank his followers for supporting him.

In a social media statement on Thursday (24 September) he penned: "It is with deep sadness that I share the sudden loss of my beautiful partner, Hannah.

"Two days following the birth of our daughter, Sofia. I am shattered.

"Her dream was to become a Mum, so it's been incredibly difficult to take.

"Thank you for all of your messages of support, I can't always reply to them all but I do appreciate them.

"Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much Hannah."

Hutchings, who played for the West Coast Eagles between 2013 and 2021, was met with messages of condolence beneath the post as comments flooded in.

One supporter wrote: “My gosh I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest condolences to you and your sweet baby girl," as another posted: “My heart breaks for you and Sofia. Sending strength and love during this extremely difficult time.”

Hutchings retired from the AFL at the end of 2021 and was believed to have been with Hannah since 2022.

No further details about the death of Hannah have been released at this stage.