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Despite his friend’s desperate attempts to save him Iestyn was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics
A 22-year-old died after entering the water at a beauty spot in south Wales. Iestyn Lewis Martin, 22, from Abertillery, visited Keeper’s Pond in Blaenavon with his friend on Wednesday, July 8.
An inquest opening at Gwent Coroner’s Court heard on Monday that Iestyn jumped into the water and swam out as far as he could but then started to panic.
His friend made attempts to stop him from panicking but Iestyn went under the water, the court heard. His friend then jumped in after him and dragged him to shore before he began CPR. Despite his friend’s desperate attempts to save him Iestyn was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
During a brief hearing on Monday morning coroner Rose Farmer told the court that a full inquest would be opened as it is suspected that Iestyn died from drowning.
A post-mortem investigation was carried out following the 22-year-old’s death and a provisional cause of death is pending further investigation. The inquest was adjourned and proceedings will continue on April 27 next year, Ms Farmer said.
Iestyn was a young rugby player at Brynithel RFC. In the days following his death the club issued the following statement: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news that one of our own, Iestyn Lewis, has sadly passed away.
“There are no words that can truly express the sadness being felt throughout Brynithel RFC today.
“Iestyn wasn’t just a player; he was a teammate, a friend, and a valued member of our club. His passion for rugby, his commitment to the Owls, and the memories he created in the green and black will never be forgotten.
“Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with Iestyn’s family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him during this incredibly difficult time.
“Once an Owl, always an Owl. Gone from our sight, never from our hearts.”
At the time of Iestyn’s death a spokesperson for Gwent Police said: “We received a report of a medical emergency at Keeper’s Pond, Abergavenny at around 2.45pm on Wednesday, July 8. Officers attended alongside paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service.
“A 22-year-old man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene; his next of kin has been informed. The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.”
