**Police Appeal for Witnesses After Man Reportedly Set on Fire Outside Newport Pub**
Authorities in Newport are seeking the public’s assistance following a disturbing incident on Sunday evening in which a man was reportedly set alight outside a popular local pub. Gwent Police have launched an investigation into the altercation, which has resulted in one arrest on suspicion of attempted murder.
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Caerleon Road, near the Victoria Inn, at approximately 7pm on 15 June. Witnesses describe a shocking sequence of events involving two men, culminating in claims that one individual was deliberately set on fire.
Police quickly shut down the road for several hours while they, along with ambulance crews and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, responded to the unfolding situation. Both men involved in the incident were taken to hospital for treatment. Police have since confirmed that neither party’s injuries are currently believed to be life-threatening or life-altering.
The gravity of the altercation is underlined by the action taken by officers in its immediate aftermath. As of Monday, it was confirmed that two Newport men had been arrested in connection with the incident. According to Gwent Police, a 42-year-old man was apprehended on suspicion of attempted murder, but has since been released on conditional bail pending further enquiries. Meanwhile, a 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of affray and remains in police custody as the investigation proceeds.
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help piece together the circumstances leading up to the incident. Gwent Police have specifically appealed for eyewitness accounts, as well as any available CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at the time. They are asking anyone who may have seen the altercation or who has pertinent details to get in touch via their official website, by calling 101, or messaging through social media channels, quoting log reference 2500188993.
Members of the community may also share information anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or submitting details on their website. Detectives hope these efforts will encourage witnesses who may be reluctant to come forward directly.
Incidents of this nature are rare in Newport but can have a profound impact on the local community, stirring concerns about safety and violence in public spaces. While such events often prompt increased police presence in affected areas, specific details regarding leads or motives have not yet been released, as investigators work to establish a full chronology of events.
Gwent Police have reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation and have thanked the public for their cooperation and assistance so far. They continue to encourage anyone with information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to step forward as they work to understand the full scope of the incident.
The Victoria Inn area, usually a hub for social gatherings, has become the focus of considerable police activity following an incident that has alarmed both residents and regular visitors. Local authorities are keen to reassure the public that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure safety and prevent similar events.
This ongoing case serves as a reminder of the critical role community involvement can play in assisting police investigations. As enquiries continue, updates will be provided by Newport authorities in due course.