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Footballer drowned in river after taking drug
Western Mail
|February 26, 2026
A POPULAR young footballer drowned after falling into a river while under the influence of a drug, an inquest heard.
Tristan O'Keefe, 19
Tristan O'Keefe, 19, was found dead in a river in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, last summer days after being reported missing.
Gwent Coroner's Service heard the teenager was captured on CCTV on June 9, 2025, in a "highly intoxicated state" and appeared to be confused and staggering as he walked towards a nearby river. Tristan was later reported missing by his family.
His body was found by his cousin in the river adjacent to Road Mill Road, Pontnewynydd, on June 11.
Area coroner Rose Farmer said a postmortem examination established Tristan had ingested a "significant quantity of amitriptyline" prior to his death. According to the NHS the drug is commonly used to treat pain and prevent migraines.
Following his death, Pontnewynydd AFC said they were "devastated" to lose such a "kind and humble" footballer who was a "bright light" at the club. They said he was loved by teammates and coaches and retired his number three shirt as a mark of respect.
This story is from the February 26, 2026 edition of Western Mail.
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