Maesteg rugby player dies after Turkish holiday bar punch, inquest told

Maesteg rugby player dies after Turkish holiday bar punch, inquest told

A rugby player from Maesteg, Bridgend county, tragically died after being punched in the head by a security guard during a holiday in Turkey, an inquest revealed. James, a 34-year-old Scot, sustained head and brain injuries following an alleged assault in a bar on 5 July. During a verbal exchange, it was reported that he fell and hit his head.

Following the incident, James was hospitalized in Turkey before being flown back to the UK. Despite medical care, he passed away on 26 July at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant, Rhondda Cynon Taf. The provisional cause of death was established as blunt head injury.

In the days following his passing, James’ family paid tribute to him, describing him as a “loving father, son, grandson and partner.” His rugby club, Maesteg Celtic RFC, also expressed their sorrow, calling him an “outstanding player and a great character.” Coroner Rachel Knight confirmed a full inquest would be held, emphasizing the need due to suspicions that the death may have been unnatural.

Knight noted that Turkish police are involved in investigating the case, with cooperation from the UK’s Foreign Office. She indicated that the inquest might be paused to allow for the criminal investigation to proceed and stated the court would communicate with authorities in Turkey. James’ family expressed deep grief, remembering him as someone with a “warm heart” and “great sense of humour,” while Maesteg Celtic RFC conveyed their condolences to those closest to him during this difficult period

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