Young dad found tragically dead in undergrowth near Welsh motorway

The body of a 30-year-old dad was found in undergrowth, the opening of an inquest heard. Father-of-one Marcus Barter had been missing for more than a month before his body was discovered in a field in Llanmartin, Newport, near the M4, on September 8. At Newport's coroner's court Coroner Rose Farmer said: "The circumstances are he was reported missing to Gwent Police on August 3, 2024, and he had previously expressed thoughts of self-harm.

On September 8, members of the public out searching for Mr Barter came across a body laying face down in undergrowth," reports WalesOnline.[1] Dental records were used to confirm the body was that of Mr Barter, Mrs Farmer said: "An inquest is being opened because as yet we do not have an ascertained cause of death. The matter is being adjourned today for further enquiries, including to ascertain the cause of death, and looking into the circumstances of his death." The inquest was adjourned to next March.

Mr Barter, from Newport, had last been seen on CCTV footage walking on Coed y Caerau Lane in Newport at around 2.30pm on Thursday, August 1. His car was found at the top of Wentwood, an ancient woodland next to the lane. His mobile phone was left in the vehicle and the last call he made was an hour after his last sighting on CCTV.

Mr Barter's family launched a major search appeal with Gwent Police before his body was found. His brother Simon Barter, who led the appeal, said last month: "It is with the deepest of sadness that we are in a position to say that sadly Marcus is no longer with us. The family are asking for peace and space to feel their grief and come to terms with our horrific loss.

As much as sympathy messages are appreciated, we ask that they are not sent to the family at this painful time. If you wish to lay flowers, the family have started to place flowers at Wentwood bluebells as this holds a place of so many good memories of Marcus." You can sign up for all the latest court stories here[4]

See the news in your area:

References

1. ^ reports WalesOnline. (www.walesonline.co.uk)
2. ^ Baby dies and mum left fighting for her life after 'hit and run' at pedestrian crossing (www.dailypost.co.uk)
3. ^ Baby dies and mum left fighting for her life after 'hit and run' at pedestrian crossing (www.dailypost.co.uk)
4. ^ latest court stories here (www.dailypost.co.uk)