Footballer, 19, drowned in river after drugs ‘experiment’ as membership mourn ‘brilliant mild’

A beloved footballer, 19, died after falling into a river an inquest was told, after the promising youngster’s body was discovered days after he went missing

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A beloved young footballer drowned after falling into a river while under the influence of powerful medication, an inquest was told.

Tristan O’Keefe, 19, was discovered dead in a river in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, last summer, days after being reported missing. Gwent Coroner’s Service was told the teenager was caught on CCTV on June 9, 2025, in a “highly intoxicated state” and appeared confused and unsteady as he made his way towards a nearby river.

Tristan was subsequently reported missing by his family. His body was discovered by his cousin in the river next to Road Mill Road, Pontnewynydd, on June 11. Following his death Pontnewynydd AFC said they were “devastated” to lose such a “kind and humble” footballer who was a “bright light” at the club. They said he was adored by team-mates and coaches and retired his number three shirt as a mark of respect.

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Area coroner Rose Farmer said a post-mortem examination revealed Tristan had consumed a “significant quantity of amitriptyline” before his death. According to the NHS, the medication is an anti-depressant most commonly used to treat pain and prevent migraines.

The inquest was told Tristan, who was employed as a labourer and lived in Griffithstown, Pontypool, at the time of his death, visited his grandfather on June 9, 2025. His grandfather gained the impression Tristan was under the influence of an intoxicating substance and considered Tristan not to be in a suitable state to accompany him to visit his grandmother.

At Tristan’s own request, his grandfather drove him to The Royal Oak pub in Pontnewynydd around 1.15pm. CCTV footage showed him exiting the car, appearing “visibly intoxicated, stumbling and falling to the ground”.

After being dropped off, Tristan headed towards the nearby river. He was subsequently seen on additional CCTV and doorbell footage in a “highly intoxicated state staggering, unsteady, and appearing confused as he continued towards the river”. Tristan was later reported missing by his family.

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The inquest heard that following a missing person appeal, a witness came forward stating she had seen Tristan being dropped at the pub, noticed him fall, and said he appeared clearly under the influence of an unknown substance. She mentioned Tristan wouldn’t tell her what he had taken.

On June 11, 2025, Tristan’s body was found by his cousin in the river next to Road Mill Road, Pontnewynydd. Emergency services were called and paramedics confirmed his death at 9.21am.

A post-mortem examination, including toxicological analysis, determined Tristan had consumed a significant amount of amitriptyline prior to his death.

Police examination of Tristan’s mobile phone also uncovered messages referring to consuming a “whole bottle” and revealed a screenshot captured at 11.53am on the day he disappeared of a Google search for “amitriptyline liquid UK”.

Ms Farmer said: “On the basis of all of the evidence I find that Tristan died from the effects of drowning in circumstances where he was profoundly intoxicated from an overdose of amitriptyline.

“His level of intoxication caused severe impairment of his coordination and awareness as evidenced by his repeated stumbling and fall. He was last seen walking towards the river in this impaired state and he was subsequently found submerged there.

“I find that, due to the significant intoxication caused by the ingestion of amitriptyline, Tristan likely fell into the river and, because of his compromised physical and cognitive state, was unable to extricate himself resulting in his drowning.

“There is no evidence that Tristan consumed the amitriptyline with any intention to end his life. The evidence instead supports that he was experimenting with the drug without appreciating the severe effects it would have upon him.”

The coroner delivered a narrative conclusion. The primary medical cause of death was drowning. Drug (amitriptyline) intake was recorded as a secondary cause.

Ms Farmer offered her condolences to Tristan’s family. A complete tribute from Tristan’s football club Pontnewynydd AFC following his death read: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of one of our own – Tristan O’Keefe.

“Tristan wasn’t just a talented footballer – he was a bright light in our club, a kind and humble young man who brought energy, joy, and strength to everyone around him.

“Loved by his team-mates, respected by his coaches, and cherished by all at Pontnewynydd AFC, Tristan was an integral part of our unforgettable undefeated league campaign – a journey that led us to promotion to the Gwent Premier League. His presence was felt in every game, every training session, and every moment off the pitch.

“As a mark of our deepest respect and in loving memory of Tristan we are retiring the number three shirt – the number he proudly wore for this club. His jersey will be framed and placed permanently in our changing rooms – a symbol of the incredible impact he made and a reminder that he will always be with us in spirit and in heart.

“Our entire club is grieving. No words can express the pain we feel or the loss suffered by those closest to Tristan. To his family and friends we extend our deepest condolences and our unwavering support during this heartbreaking time.

“We will never forget you Tristan. You will always be a part of Pontnewynydd AFC. Forever 19. Forever our number three.”

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