**Community Gathers in Cardiff to Mourn Teenager Who Died at Barry Island Pleasure Park**
A wave of deep sadness swept through Cardiff as hundreds turned out to pay their respects to Taha Soomro, a 16-year-old boy who died after a tragic incident at Barry Island Pleasure Park late last month. The sudden loss has left a lasting impact on his local community, drawing mourners of all ages and backgrounds together at the Bilal Mosque in Pontcanna for his funeral prayer service.
The air was heavy with grief as a steady stream of people made their way into the mosque on Thursday afternoon. The subdued hush inside was punctuated only by the gentle call to prayer shortly after 2pm, signalling the start of a service marked by reflection and shared sorrow. Family, friends, classmates, and strangers alike came together, united by a sense of collective loss.
Outside the mosque, there were quiet displays of emotion as attendees offered comfort and support to each other. Among the mourners was a young woman moved to tears, consoled by friends as she said her own goodbye to Taha. The turnout spanned generations, with many young people present, highlighting the depth of connections Taha had fostered in his short life.
The streets surrounding the mosque were carefully managed by police community support officers, a testament to the sheer number of attendees. The gathering brought together members of Cardiff’s Muslim and Pakistani communities, with many taking time from their daily lives to remember the teenager and stand in solidarity with his grieving family.
Following the prayer service, a quiet procession left the mosque for a burial ceremony held elsewhere in the city. The crowd moved in respectful silence, some exchanging gentle words, while others remained lost in their thoughts. The sense of unity was palpable, with the wider community intent on providing strength to one another during this period of mourning.
Taha had been a pupil at Fitzalan High School. Staff and students expressed their devastation at his sudden death, emphasising that his memory would always be cherished. The school released a statement extending heartfelt condolences to Taha’s family and loved ones, noting the profound sense of loss felt by everyone who knew him. Support services have been made available to help students and staff process their grief.
South Wales Police responded to reports of a medical incident at Barry Island Pleasure Park just before 5pm on Friday, 23 May. Despite the efforts of the emergency services, Taha passed away at the scene. Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the circumstances of his death remain ongoing.
As part of their enquiries, police arrested a 15-year-old boy from Cardiff on suspicion of assault in connection with the incident. He has since been released on police bail whilst further investigations continue. Officers have encouraged anyone who was present at the pleasure park around the time of the incident or who may have mobile phone footage or other crucial information to come forward.
In a recent statement, South Wales Police reiterated their commitment to uncovering the facts surrounding Taha’s death and supporting his family during this difficult time. They appealed for witnesses to assist in their investigation, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in bringing clarity to the tragic event.
This tragedy has clearly resonated far beyond Taha’s immediate circle, affecting an entire city and its wider network of communities. For now, the people of Cardiff continue to share in the process of mourning and healing, determined to honour the young life that was so suddenly taken from them.