Four charged in connection with death of Liam Woolford in Rhydyfelin

Four men have been charged in connection with the death of 22-year-old Liam Woolford, who died after an incident on Poets Close in Rhydyfelin, Rhondda Cynon Taf, in the early hours of Tuesday.

Jake Staples, 24, of Porth, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, wounding with intent, conspiracy to wound another and possession of a bladed article. Abeyshake Karunanithy, 22, of Tonteg, has been charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to wound another and possession of a bladed article. Ethan Ross, 23, of Rhydyfelin, has been charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to wound another and possession of a bladed article, while Jesse Wandera, 30, of Rhydyfelin, has been charged with conspiracy to wound another.

All four are due to appear at Newport Magistrates' Court on Saturday.

Woolford's family said they were "thinking of their loving son Liam at this difficult time and ask for privacy to grieve" in a statement released earlier this week. Detective Superintendent Paul Raikes said his thoughts were with the family and loved ones of Mr Woolford, and he thanked the Rhydyfelin community for their support during the investigation.

Police have described the incident as the subject of a continuing investigation by regional officers. No further details about the circumstances of the event were released, in line with standard practice during ongoing inquiries. The community in Rhydyfelin has been vocal in its support for Woolford's family while authorities pursue charges, and investigators have emphasized that additional court appearances will follow as the case proceeds.