Mr David, who had served as a Labour member of the Senedd for Caerphilly since 2016, was declared dead at his home in Nelson
09:37, 26 Aug 2025Updated 10:04, 26 Aug 2025
Hefin David was 47 when he died(Image: Matthew Horwood)
Senedd member Hefin David died at his home just a day before his birthday. His cause of death remains “unascertained” with the results of a toxicology examination still pending.
Mr David, 47, had been a Labour member of the Senedd for Caerphilly since 2016. During his nine years in Cardiff Bay he sat on the Senedd’s economy committee and the culture committee.
He frequently made contributions in the Senedd about one of his two daughters, who has autism and learning difficulties, routinely speaking up on the experiences of his family. For the latest court reports sign up to our crime newsletter.
Hefin David had served as MS for Caerphilly since 2016(Image: Matthew Horwood)
An inquest opening at Gwent Coroners Court in Newport on Tuesday, August 26, heard Mr David was found hanged at his home in Cae’r Gelynnen on August 12.
Police and paramedics attended the address but despite their best efforts Mr David was pronounced dead at 7.27pm.
A post mortem examination was carried out on August 15 but the final cause of Mr David’s death is awaiting following the results of a toxicology examination.
Mr David was identified by his sister at the scene and enquiries into the circumstances of his death remain ongoing.
Hefin Wyn David served as MS for Caerphilly(Image: UGC)
Area coroner for Gwent, Rose Farmer, adjourned Mr David’s inquest until April 26 next year.
Following the inquest his family issued a statement saying: “It is clear from the very many messages we have received that Hefin was widely respected and held in genuine affection by the community he represented, and by those he worked with during his many years of public service.
“But more than this, Hefin was a devoted father who was adored by his daughters Caitlin and Holly, a much loved son to Wynne and Christine, a beloved brother to Siân, a brilliant uncle to Osian and Catrin, and a soulmate to his cherished partner Vikki. We are very grateful to all those who have reached out to us since Hefin’s passing, and ask now for privacy to grieve.”
Previously, tributes were paid to Mr David by First Minister Eluned Morgan and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Eluned Morgan said: “We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time.
“Hefin was a much-loved member of the Labour family. He served Caerphilly as a councillor and a Member of the Senedd with pride and passion.
“He was an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator – especially on behalf of his constituents. He will be greatly missed.”
Keir Starmer said: “He was a powerful voice for the people of Wales and a committed public servant, who dedicated his life to making sure every person and community in Wales had the opportunities and support they deserve.”
Mr David grew up in the village of Penpedairheol near Bargoed. After studying politics and economics at Cardiff University he later went on to gain a PhD in small business employment issues before working as a lecturer at the University of Wales in Newport and then Cardiff Metropolitan University.
His political career began in March, 2007, when he became a local councillor for the ward of St Cattwg in Caerphilly County Borough Council.
Through his work he has campaigned for further and higher education for those with additional needs, the development of Valleys communities and small firm development and growth.
He had also campaigned about freeholders, who have estate management charges imposed on their properties, and called on the Welsh Government to cap estate management charges in Wales.
Alongside his political work, he was also a governor at Heolddu Comprehensive School and was a keen supporter of the Caerphilly Miners Centre.
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