Bridgend, Wales – Following the tragic deaths of six inmates at HMP Parc in Bridgend over a span of less than a month, three individuals have been arrested in connection with the incidents. The deaths, which occurred between February 27 and March 19, have raised concerns and prompted an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic events.
Authorities have revealed that four of the six inmate deaths are suspected to be drug-related, while the remaining two are being treated as non-suspicious cases. South Wales Police have taken into custody a 40-year-old man from Birmingham and a 34-year-old woman from Cardiff on suspicion of conspiracy to supply controlled substances and money laundering. Additionally, a 34-year-old man from Cardiff has also been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the distribution of controlled drugs.
One of the inmates who passed away, identified as Cameron Andrews, was found unresponsive by prison staff during routine morning checks on March 19. Despite efforts to revive him, he tragically did not survive. A post-mortem examination did not reveal the cause of death, leading to the need for further testing to determine the exact circumstances.
Assistant Coroner Rachel Knight expressed suspicions that Andrews’ death may have been “unnatural,” prompting an inquest to be opened. The full inquest will be heard by a jury at a later date, yet to be scheduled. HMP Parc, where the tragic events unfolded, is classified as a category B prison housing convicted male adult and young offenders, as well as convicted and remand sex offenders. The facility, known for being one of the largest prisons in the UK, held 1,612 prisoners at the time of a 2019 inspection.