An inquest opening at Pontypridd Coroner's Court has heard that a 25-year-old man found dead at a campsite beside the Royal Welsh showground in Builth Wells died from a suspected drug overdose.
Provisional cause given after post-mortem
The deceased has been named as Dewi Aeron Evans, from Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr in Conwy county. He was discovered at the campsite on 18 July, just two days before the start of the Royal Welsh Show, Wales’ largest annual agricultural festival.
A post-mortem examination was carried out at Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil. Dr Kondratowicz provided a provisional cause of death described as "consistent with drug overdose", though formal toxicology results are still awaited.
Police investigation and arrests
Dyfed-Powys Police are conducting enquiries into the circumstances surrounding Mr Evans’s death. At the inquest opening, coroner Patricia Morgan noted the investigation is ongoing and adjourned proceedings pending the outcome of further medical testing and police work.
As part of the criminal investigation, three men have been arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences and subsequently released on bail while enquiries continue.
- Date found: 18 July
- Age: 25
- Post-mortem location: Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil
- Police action: Three arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences (bailed)
"Dewi Aeron Evans, a beloved and dear son, brother and grandson; will be a huge loss to the family and community in Uwchaled. The family and community would appreciate privacy at this difficult time.”
Local impact and context
The discovery of a young man’s body close to the Royal Welsh venue has drawn attention because of the timing — the find came on the eve of an event that brings thousands into the area. While there is no suggestion that the wider public was at direct risk, the case underlines ongoing concerns about substance misuse and safety at large gatherings and temporary campsites.
Coroner Mrs Morgan has adjourned the inquest to a future date to allow police to complete their enquiries and for toxicology results to be reported. Until those results are received and considered, the provisional cause remains subject to confirmation.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Dewi Aeron Evans |
| Found | 18 July, campsite near Royal Welsh showground, Builth Wells |
| Provisional cause | Consistent with drug overdose (pending toxicology) |
| Police action | Three arrests on suspicion of drug-related offences (bailed) |
The family’s request for privacy has been noted by police and the coroner. The local community, especially in Uwchaled and surrounds, is likely to be affected by the loss and by the questions that will remain until the inquest resumes. I will continue to follow this story as the investigation and medical testing progress and report any significant developments.
