A forestry worker died after he was hit by a falling tree, an inquest has heard.
A hearing at Gwent Coroner’s Court yesterday, Wednesday, August 23, was told that 24-year-old Ben Thomas, from Bargoed, was pronounced dead by a paramedic at Pont Lawrence Rees Lane in Cwmfelinfach.
Emergency services were called after a member of the public raised the alarm at around 3pm on Tuesday, August 15.
According to the provisional findings of a post-mortem examination, the cause of Mr Thomas’ death was crush asphyxia and lacerated lungs. He had also suffered fractured ribs and blunt trauma injuries as a result of a falling tree.
Senior coroner for Gwent David Bowen adjourned the inquest for three months while enquiries are carried out by Gwent Police and the Health and Safety Executive.
Cefn Fforest-born boxer Nathan Cleverly has said he is dedicating his upcoming Las Vegas title-fight to Mr Thomas.
The fighter will face Sweden’s Badou Jack on Saturday, August 26, and paid tribute to the forestry worker via Facebook.
He posted: “I’m very sorry to hear about another local Bargoed lad taken way too soon.
“The thoughts of myself and everyone in Team Clev are with the family, friends and loved ones of Ben Thomas. Stay strong!
“It’s eight days until I take on Badou Jack in the first defence of my WBA world title. It’s a crucial fight in my career and it will be dedicated to Ben!
“Rest In Peace, mate.”