Young footballer dies after falling in river under the influence of drugs
A young footballer tragically drowned after falling into a river while intoxicated, as revealed during an inquest.
Tristan O'Keefe, a 19-year-old footballer, drowned in a river in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, after being reported missing. CCTV footage from June 9, 2025, showed him in a 'highly intoxicated state,' staggering confusedly towards the river. His family reported him missing, and his body was discovered by a cousin in the river two days later.
The inquest conducted by Gwent Coroner's Service concluded that O'Keefe had ingested a substantial amount of amitriptyline, an anti-depressant commonly used for pain management and migraine prevention. This finding suggests that his intoxication level contributed significantly to the tragic accident. Family and local footballes expressed grief over the loss, highlighting his gentle nature and the bright spirit he brought to their community.
In the aftermath of this incident, Pontnewynydd AFC expressed their devastation over the loss of such a beloved player, underlining the emotional impact his death has had on both his family and the local sports community. This tragedy raises awareness around the dangers of substance use and the need for greater support for young individuals facing mental health issues.