Man whose death sparked murder investigation named

Liam Woolford, 22, died following an incident on Poets Close in Rhydyfelin

A man whose death sparked a murder investigation has been named.

Liam Woolford, 22, from Porth, Rhondda Cynon Taf, died following an incident on Poets Close, Rhydyfelin, at about 00:40 BST on Tuesday.

Two other men in their 20s injured were also treated in hospital for injuries suffered in the incident and a 30-year-old man from Rhydyfelin and a 22-year-old man from Tonteg have been arrested on suspicion of murder while a 20-year-old woman from Penygraig has also been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.

In a statement, Mr Woolford's family said: "The family are thinking of their loving son Liam at this difficult time and ask for privacy to grieve."

The force said the 30-year-old man had also been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Det Supt Paul Raikes of South Wales Police urged anyone with information to come forward.

He explained the force was "investigating at pace", with an increased presence and a cordon on Masefield Way, specifically between the junctions of Poets Close and Shakespeare Rise.

Ashley Webb, 26, who lives nearby, said: "My anxiety is through the roof.

"It's on my doorstep. My kids are too scared to go out, I won't let them out."

Neighbour Brandon Griffiths, also 26, saw a police car as he drove home in the early hours but said he did not see a cordon until he returned home after dropping his daughter at school.

"It's quite scary to be honest with you," he added.

A police cordon has been in place since Tuesday morning

Alex Davies-Jones, MP for Pontypridd, said she was in "close contact" with police over the "very serious incident" and would provide updates.

She urged the community to "care for one another", avoid sharing misinformation, and come forward with any helpful details.

The injured men, who are aged in their 20s, remain in hospital.