A MAN has admitted murdering a well-known boxer and mixed martial arts fighter who was found seriously injured at a Blaenavon address.

Duane Keen, aged 47, was discovered with catastrophic injuries at a property on Riverside Drive in Blaenavon during the early hours of Thursday, October 17 last year. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kai Pennell, aged 35, appeared before Cardiff Crown Court on Friday (Feb 6), where he pleaded guilty to murder.

He also admitted criminal damage relating to the destruction of a white Suzuki Swift belonging to Rebecca Phillips. A further allegation of making threats to kill will not proceed to trial.

Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke told the court that only a life sentence can be imposed for murder, with the minimum term to be decided at a later hearing. Pennell, of Riverside Drive, was remanded in custody and will return to court for sentencing on February 24.

Police were called to the address shortly after 2:00am. Witnesses reported armed officers, paramedics and an air ambulance attending, while the street was sealed off as forensic teams began their investigation.

In a statement, Gwent Police previously confirmed a major emergency response had been launched following reports of serious violence.

Family members paid tribute to Mr Keen, describing him as a dedicated sportsman and a loyal friend.

They said: “Duane was a talented boxer and MMA all-rounder with lots of belts to his name. He would help anyone who needed it and was always at the end of a phone.

“He loved being with his dogs and out walking with them. Duane will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. There are no words to express what we as a family are going through.

“Duane, you were a champ in the ring, but you were the biggest champ to us.”

The court heard that sentencing will take place later this month, when the judge will determine how long Pennell must serve before he can be considered for release.

Further details of the circumstances surrounding the killing are expected to be outlined at that hearing.

FIVE people have been arrested after a teenage boy died following an incident at a property in Abertridwr.

Officers from Gwent Police were called to Lower Francis Street at around 5:45pm on Thursday (Feb 5) following reports that a 17-year-old had suffered a serious injury.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, the teenager, who was from Abertridwr, was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers.

Three men — aged 26 from London, 24 from Abertridwr and 18 from Cardiff — have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Two women — aged 28 from Hereford and 24 from Senghenydd — were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

All five remain in police custody while enquiries continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Jitka Tomkova-Griffiths said officers would maintain an increased presence in the area.

She said: “We understand that reports of this nature are concerning, and residents will see more officers locally while we continue our investigation.

“It is important that people do not speculate about the identities of those involved, as this could hinder our enquiries.

“If anyone has information, please speak to officers or contact us in the usual way.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log reference 2600038325, contact police via social media or the force website, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

MAJOR refurbishment work has begun at Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Glangwili Hospital after more than £2 million in funding was secured from the Welsh Government.

The £2.096m investment will be used to overhaul the hospital’s Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) unit, creating extra consultation rooms, a redesigned reception, and a more comfortable environment for both patients and staff.

Health chiefs say the expanded unit will help reduce pressure on the hospital’s busy Emergency Department by allowing more people to be treated quickly without needing an overnight stay.

The project forms part of wider efforts to improve urgent and emergency care across the health board’s sites, including the Minor Injury Unit at Prince Philip Hospital.

Keith Jones, Director of Operational Planning and Performance for the health board, said the funding would increase capacity and speed up patient flow.

He said: “This investment will help us reduce pressure on the Emergency Department and provide a smoother, swifter experience for patients. We’re grateful to Welsh Government for the support.”

Services temporarily relocated

While the work takes place, several services have moved elsewhere on the hospital site.

The SDEC unit, Discharge Lounge and Medical Day Unit have relocated to Y Lolfa, formerly Padarn Ward.

The Cancer Information and Support Service and Cancer Psychological Support Service have also moved, although contact details remain unchanged.

Some clinics, including podiatry, neuro-rehabilitation and occupational therapy, will stay at the Priory Day Hospital, but patients may need to use different access routes.

Patients are being notified through appointment letters, and extra signage will be in place around the hospital. Staff are urging visitors to check their letters carefully or contact departments directly if unsure where to attend.

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles said the upgrade would help tackle overcrowding and delays.

He said: “This investment will reduce waits, ease handover pressures and improve the overall experience for patients and staff when they need urgent or emergency care.”

Work is expected to continue over the coming months.