David Rogers, 58, tragically passed away in hospital on Monday, March 2, after fighting for his life following an assault in the early hours of Saturday, February 28.
In a touching statement, his family described the father-of-four as a man who “meant everything” to them and was affectionately known to many as “Disco Dave.”
“David was a proud father of four sons, Aaron, Cory, Kane, and Saul,” his family said. “He was a devoted brother to his sister, Bethan, an uncle to his nieces and nephews, Lewis and Leah, and cherished son to his mother, Judy.”
The family also remembered his adventurous spirit, adding: “He loved going on overseas adventures, playing golf at the Vale Resort, and being known as ‘Disco Dave’.”
His partner, Abbie, shared her own devastating tribute, calling David her “forever” and “best friend” who always went above and beyond for his stepchildren.
“We as a family don’t even know how to begin to move on without him,” she said. “We, as a family, are now left with a hole in our lives that will never be filled.”
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, as South Wales Police confirmed the investigation has now been upgraded to a murder inquiry.
Liam Walters, 26, of Pencoed, has been charged with the murder of Mr Rogers and appeared before Cardiff Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 4.
Walters has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to make his next appearance at Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday, March 5.
Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team are continuing to appeal for witnesses who may have been in the Felindre Road area between 12.30am and 4.30am on the night of the incident.
Detective Inspector Graham Williams, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “Sadly, a 58-year-old man has died in hospital following the incident on Saturday morning. Our thoughts are with his family at this time and they are being supported.”
Officers are particularly keen to speak to two potential witnesses—two elderly people seen walking along Felindre Road during the early hours of Saturday morning.
DI Williams added: “I would like to reassure the local community that we have somebody in custody and are not looking for anybody else at this time.”
“I thank everyone in the community who has helped our investigation so far, and I urge anyone with information which may be relevant to our investigation – particularly the two potential witnesses – to get in touch.”
Motorists who were in the area at the time are also being urged to check their dashcams for any footage that might be relevant to the case.
The Major Crime Investigation Team is leading the ongoing inquiry, and anyone with information is urged to contact South Wales Police on 101, quoting reference 2600063517.
