Ombudsman confirms separate fatalities as scrutiny intensifies over G4S-run jail

TWO MORE deaths connected to HMP Parc are now under investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO), bringing renewed focus on conditions inside the privately-run Bridgend prison.

The latest cases concern Eric McShane, born 13 February 1997, who died on 11 September 2025, and Peter Kaminsky, born 2 February 1968, who died on 4 October 2025.

Both men died in the community — McShane nine days after his release from custody, and Kaminsky while on compassionate release to receive end-of-life care at home. Both deaths are being investigated by the Ombudsman as part of its remit to review fatalities occurring within 14 days of release.

Background

Official figures show there were 25 deaths at HMP Parc between January 2023 and December 2024, including 17 deaths in 2024 alone — the highest number recorded in any prison in England or Wales.

The Ombudsman’s most recent annual report also revealed that five prisoners died in early 2025, all linked to substance use. Many of those cases remain under investigation.

Campaigners, including the charity INQUEST, have repeatedly raised concerns about drug availability, inadequate supervision and chronic staff shortages within Parc, which is operated by G4S under contract to the Ministry of Justice.

Families of several men who have died at the facility allege management failed to protect vulnerable inmates from the spread of synthetic drugs such as Spice and other illicit substances.

Campaigner raises alarm

The latest deaths were highlighted by Zack Griffiths, lead campaigner for the UK Prisons for Justice group, who was himself released from custody only days ago.

Mr Griffiths is currently recovering after being stabbed shortly after his release, an incident that is now under investigation.

Before the attack, he had spoken publicly about the “continuing crisis” at Parc, calling for transparency over the number of post-release deaths and urging the UK Government to end private management of prisons.

Zack had been recalled to prison due to alleged criminality which later turned out to be unproven in court – his supporters say it was an attempt to silence him.

Calls for accountability

Welsh Members of the Senedd have urged the UK Government to review safety standards at the prison, which holds more than 1,700 men and young offenders. Dyfed-Powys Police has also investigated several previous incidents.

With the PPO now examining the deaths of McShane and Kaminsky, questions are again being asked about how many more lives must be lost before meaningful change is enforced at Parc.

The Herald understands both investigations remain active and that reports will be published once the Ombudsman’s findings are complete.

An HMP Parc spokesperson said: “A prisoner aged 57, died at home on 4 October 2025, while on compassionate release to receive end of life care. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time

“A former prisoner, aged 27, died in the community on 11 September 2025, nine days after his release from HMP Parc. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and friends. 

“All deaths in custody, and those that occur within 14 days of release, are investigated by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. The cause of death is ultimately for the coroner to determine.”