Liam Power, 36, died outside Croeserw Social Club in Port Talbot after being found with cocaine in his system, an inquest opening has heard. The self-employed tree surgeon collapsed outside the club on May 8.
Inquest opening details
An inquest opening at Swansea Guildhall on Wednesday, August 19 heard how Mr Power had been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome but had no other known health issues at the time of his death. Coroner's officer Gareth Heatley said that on the night of May 8 emergency services were contacted about a male in cardiac arrest outside the club.
Paramedics and police officers attended and CPR was carried out, but the inquest opening heard how this was unsuccessful and that Mr Power's death was recorded at 11.30pm. Mr Power, of Oakwood in Maesteg, was taken to the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend. He was identified by his mother. No suspicious circumstances surrounding the death were identified.
Post mortem findings
Dr Gareth Leopold carried out a post mortem examination on May 18, 2026, and samples found high levels of cocaine. The provisional cause of death was recorded as acute subarachnoid haemorrhage and acute cocaine toxicity.
Full hearing scheduled
Coroner Aled Gruffydd formally opened the inquest and adjourned for the full hearing to take place on January 26, 2027. He offered his deepest condolences to Mr Power's family.
