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Tributes have been paid to 17-year-old Tristan Shae Kerr, whose death last week has “touched an entire community”.

A murder investigation was launched following Tristan’s death in Abertridwr on Thursday February 5.

Five arrests were made, four of which appeared at Newport Magistrate’s Court on Monday February 9, each charged with murder.

An event was held in Abertridwr on Monday, where he was commemorated with fireworks and a balloon release.

An online fundraiser in his memory had also raised more than £6,000 at the time of publication.

Paying tribute to the teenager, Aber Valley councillor Charlotte Bishop said: “Tristan deserves kindness and respect. He mattered. He was part of this community, and his family and friends continue to grieve him every day.

“Tristan had a cheeky sense of humour that always found a way to shine through, and he showed respect to those who treated him with respect. He had so much promise, and many of us were looking forward to seeing him grow into that potential and become the person he was meant to be.”

Cllr Bishop, who leads the Plaid Cymru group on Caerphilly Council, continued: “His life was worth more than the moment that stole him away. A young life – not even 18 – should have never ended this way. The pain left behind reaches far beyond one moment and one family, touching an entire community.

“This is why we cannot stay silent. Knives can lead to tragedies and leave heartbreak that lasts a lifetime. We owe it to Tristan, and to every young person, to face this issue with honesty, care, and determination.”

Cllr Bishop added: “We remember Tristan with love. We hold his family and friends in our hearts. And we grieve not only the life lost, but the future that should have been.

“Rest in peace, Tristan. You are missed, and you will not be forgotten.”

Cllr Bishop also echoed calls from Gwent Police, urging people not to speculate and spreading inaccurate information on social media, potentially hindering the police investigation and prosecution.

Plaid Cymru’s Delyth Jewell, Senedd Member for South Wales East, said: “An entire community is grieving the loss of a young life.

“I thank the authorities for the work they’re doing, and I hope and trust that support will continue to be made available to anyone in the community who needs it in the coming days and weeks.

“Our thoughts are with the community in Abertridwr at this tragic time.”