Hospital Road in Pontnewynydd may remain closed until at least Friday and possibly into the weekend as police continue to investigate the death of Anthony “Tony” Jones, 56, a council spokesperson has said. The road closure is part of an ongoing Gwent Police investigation into the incident that led to Mr Jones’s death.
Mr Jones, from Brecon, died from injuries sustained in a violent incident on Thursday, August 6. Gwent Police received a report of violent disorder involving a group of men in Mill Street at around 7pm. Mr Jones was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, along with two other men, as a result of the alleged street brawl.
Arrests and ongoing enquiries
Ten men, aged 31, 33, 34, 39, 40, 40, 45, 59, 61 and 73, have been arrested in connection with the disorder. Three men, aged 39, 45 and 61, have been released on bail. The other seven men remain in police custody.
In the latest police update, investigating officers launched an appeal to find 40-year-old Anthony Paul Jones, as they believe he may be able to assist with their enquiries. Police also want to locate a blue Ford Transit van with the registration MA23 FLC, which was reportedly involved in the disorder. The van is believed to be missing its front lower nearside panel.
Police appeal and community impact
Gwent Police senior investigating officer DSI Laura Bartley said: “We recognise that reports of this nature will cause concern in our communities, but our officers are working around the clock and conducting enquiries as part of this live investigation. Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the victim.”
Anyone with information on Anthony Paul Jones or the blue Ford Transit van’s whereabouts is urged to submit information via the Major Incident Public Portal or contact police quoting log reference 2600255536. People can also call 101, direct message police on Facebook or X, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
A Torfaen Council spokesperson said: “Following an update from Gwent Police, we are informed that Hospital Road may remain closed until at least Friday and possibly into the weekend to allow their investigation to continue. It has been agreed with the Neighbourhood Policing Team that PCSOs will control traffic for the next 2 days on Lower Leigh Road from 7am - 9pm.”
Roadworks to ease congestion
To help ease congestion, Wales & West Utilities began backfilling trenches this afternoon on one side of the road on Park Road / Penygarn Hill. The council spokesperson added: “We expect the one side of the road to be filled, resurfaced and open on to traffic on Wednesday evening with temporary traffic lights. Wales and West Utilities have allocated additional resources to undertake this work and will be working extended hours tomorrow evening and throughout Wednesday. We would like to thank Wales and West for their support with this.”
