**Inquiry Underway Following Death of Prisoner at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham**
A formal investigation is now in progress after a 51-year-old man, identified as Darren Watts, died while serving his sentence at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham. The death, which occurred on Sunday, 13 July, marks the fourth death at this facility under review this year, prompting renewed concern about the circumstances faced by inmates within one of Europe’s largest prisons.
Darren Watts, born on 3 November 1973, was housed at HMP Berwyn, categorised as a Category C prison and designed to accommodate up to 2,100 male inmates. His passing has drawn both local and national attention, given the ongoing pattern of fatalities at the prison in 2025, each of which is subject to a separate inquiry.
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) is spearheading the latest investigation, in keeping with its remit to examine deaths in custody. A spokesperson for the ombudsman explained that their reviews cover any aspect potentially linked to a prisoner’s death, including the management of mental and physical health conditions, as well as risks related to suicide, self-harm, or substance misuse.
As part of their standard process, the PPO’s investigation includes a thorough review of the post-mortem examination, discussions with the staff who worked with the deceased, and an analysis of pertinent records. The office will also consider clinical reports and interview scripts to ensure a comprehensive picture of the events leading up to Watts’ death is established.
According to prison service protocol, the family of Darren Watts will be provided with a copy of the ombudsman’s report prior to its official release. After the PPO has submitted its findings, the case will proceed to a coroner’s inquest, which will seek to determine the exact cause and circumstances of death.
An official statement issued by the Prison Service conveyed condolences to the family and friends of Mr Watts and reiterated the commitment to transparency through the ombudsman’s independent inquiry. “Our thoughts remain with the friends and family of Darren Watts. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate,” the spokesperson said.
This latest incident at HMP Berwyn brings to light persistent questions regarding inmate safety and the quality of care within the prison system. While each case is subject to individual scrutiny, the fact that four deaths have taken place at this institution alone in 2025 will likely intensify calls for a broader review into the facility’s safety protocols and support structures for those deemed vulnerable.
Observers and advocacy groups have repeatedly highlighted the importance of rigorous oversight and the need for the prison system to address underlying issues, such as mental health provision and substance misuse intervention. The PPO’s reports and any subsequent recommendations from the inquest process are often crucial in shaping future policy and practice improvements aimed at preventing further tragedies.
As the investigation proceeds, many will be closely watching to see whether systemic failings are identified and addressed, not only to provide answers for Mr Watts’ family, but also to ensure that the lessons are learnt which could safeguard the wellbeing of other prisoners at HMP Berwyn and beyond.