A tragic incident on a stag do in the Czech Republic has led to the death of a young father, David ‘Dai’ Richards, 31, from Mountain Ash in Rhondda Cynon Taf. The incident occurred on a city street the night before he passed away in Prague on September 21. According to a statement from Coroner’s officer Beverley Morgan at Pontypridd Coroners’ Court, Mr. Richards was involved in an altercation where he was struck on the head with a vodka bottle. He was in Prague for the stag do trip with friends when the incident occurred, leading to him being taken to a hospital where he later died.
The provisional cause of death provided by a post-mortem examination in Prague indicated brain trauma, swelling, and haemorrhaging. Coroner Patricia Morgan expressed suspicions of a violent or unnatural death and postponed the inquest for a full investigation, offering sympathies to Mr. Richards’ family. The family described him as a remarkable father, partner, son, brother, and friend, emphasizing that the incident was a blind attack rather than a fight. They mentioned that Mr. Richards was speaking to locals in the street when he was struck on the back of the head, leading to his passing.
Reports from Czech media revealed that a 26-year-old man, whose nationality was undisclosed, was arrested following the incident. Police stated that the altercation involved two groups of men, resulting in one individual hitting Mr. Richards with a vodka bottle. The arrested man is now facing charges of grievous bodily harm and disorderly conduct, for which he could receive a prison sentence of up to 16 years. The British authorities confirmed their support for Mr. Richards’ family in light of the tragic event.
The heartbreaking loss of David ‘Dai’ Richards has stirred emotions within his community and among his loved ones. His family and friends have shared fond memories and heartfelt tributes, reflecting on his character and the impact he had on those around him. The details surrounding the incident continue to be investigated, shedding light on the circumstances that led to this untimely tragedy.