**Police Identify Teen Who Died at Barry Island Pleasure Park and Confirm Arrest in Ongoing Investigation**
South Wales Police have named the 16-year-old boy who died at Barry Island Pleasure Park on Friday evening, in a case that has prompted widespread shock and raised concerns throughout the local community. The deceased has been confirmed as Taha Soomro, a resident of Grangetown, Cardiff. In connection with the incident, a 15-year-old boy, also from Grangetown, has been arrested on suspicion of assault and remains in police custody while investigations continue.
Emergency services responded to Barry Island Pleasure Park just before 5pm on Friday, following reports of a teenager suffering a ‘medical episode’. Despite rapid intervention from both police officers and Welsh Ambulance Service paramedics, efforts to resuscitate Taha were unsuccessful, and he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The area was promptly cordoned off as investigators commenced inquiries.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police shared an update on Saturday, stating: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding Taha’s death. We are urging the public to refrain from speculation, particularly on social media, to avoid hampering our investigation.” Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in or around the popular amusement park at the time, with a particular interest in mobile phone footage or eyewitness accounts that could assist their inquiries.
Taha Soomro’s family have been informed and are currently receiving support from specially trained officers. The news has reverberated through the Grangetown community and beyond, with many expressing condolences and offering messages of support for the bereaved family. South Wales Police have reiterated their commitment to investigating all avenues and keeping the family updated as new information emerges.
In their appeal, police requested that members of the public submit any relevant footage or details through an official online portal or by contacting 101, quoting the reference number provided. For those who wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can also be contacted. The incident underscores the importance of community cooperation during such sensitive investigations, with authorities emphasising the crucial role of witness information.
Barry Island Pleasure Park, a popular venue particularly busy with families and young people, reopened to the public the morning following the tragic event. The park’s owners expressed their deep sadness, stating, “All of our team did their best to assist emergency services, but tragically the boy suffered a medical emergency and could not be saved. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this very sad time.” The owners also confirmed their cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The tragedy has led to renewed attention on safety and security at public venues, prompting discussions among local leaders and community stakeholders. Police have taken the step of increasing patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the public and to demonstrate their active presence as the inquiry continues.
This incident comes at the start of what would usually be a busy summer period for Barry Island, which is renowned for its family attractions and community events. Many residents and local businesses have expressed hope that answers will soon be found, so that lessons can be learned and the community may begin to heal.
Anyone with knowledge of the incident or who has footage from the vicinity of Barry Island Pleasure Park on Friday evening is strongly encouraged to come forward. South Wales Police continue to pursue multiple lines of enquiry and urge witnesses to assist so the family of Taha Soomro can have the clarity and justice they deserve.
The police investigation remains active, with updates expected in the coming days. As the community grieves the profound loss of a young life, the focus remains on supporting Taha’s family and ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation.