A British rugby player died after sustaining head and brain injuries during an alleged assault at a bar while on holiday in Turkey, an inquest has heard.
Scot James, 34, from Maesteg, Bridgend, was hospitalized following the incident on July 5. He fell and hit his head during a "verbal exchange" with a security guard, Pontypridd Coroner's Court was told on Tuesday.
James was repatriated to the United Kingdom and passed away on July 26 at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant. A provisional cause of death was given as blunt head injury.
His family described James as a "loving father, son, grandson and partner" who "had a warm heart, a great sense of humour, and a natural ability to bring people together." They stated, "We are heartbroken by his loss. No words can truly express the pain we are experiencing or the void his passing has left in our lives."
Maesteg Celtic RFC, where James was a player, issued a statement expressing devastation and sending thoughts to his family and friends. The club remembered him as an "outstanding player and a great character."
Coroner Rachel Knight determined that a full inquest was necessary due to suspicion that the death may have been unnatural. She noted that proceedings might be paused pending the outcome of any criminal investigation by Turkish authorities. The court will liaen with Turkish officials, and police in Turkey are understood to be investigating the death with assistance from the Foreign Office.