Charlotte Bishop, leader of the Plaid Cymru group on Caerphilly Council, has paid tribute to 17-year-old Abertridwr teenager Tristan Shae Kerr who died last week.
Councillor Charlotte Bishop, who represents Abertridwr, said: “Tristan deserves kindness and respect. He mattered. He was part of this community, and his family and friends continue to grieve him every day.
“Tristan had a cheeky sense of humour that always found a way to shine through, and he showed respect to those who treated him with respect. He had so much promise, and many of us were looking forward to seeing him grow into that potential and become the person he was meant to be.
“His life was worth more than the moment that stole him away. A young life — not even 18 — should have never ended this way. The pain left behind reaches far beyond one moment and one family, touching an entire community.
“This is why we cannot stay silent. Knives can lead to tragedies and leave heartbreak that lasts a lifetime. We owe it to Tristan, and to every young person, to face this issue with honesty, care, and determination.
“We remember Tristan with love. We hold his family and friends in our hearts. And we grieve not only the life lost, but the future that should have been.
“Rest in peace, Tristan.
“You are missed, and you will not be forgotten.”
Councillor Charlotte Bishop urged people not to speculate, refrain from spreading hearsay and report only facts to avoid hindering the police investigation and prosecution.
South-East Wales Senedd Member Delyth Jewell said: "An entire community is grieving the loss of a young life. I thank the authorities for the work they're doing, and I hope and trust that support will continue to be made available to anyone in the community who needs it in the coming days and weeks. Our thoughts are with the community in Abertridwr at this tragic time."
- Four people have been charged with the murder of Tristan Kerr.