Man in court over pensioner ‘murder’

A MAN has appeared in court charged with the murder of a pensioner in Glynneath.

Kyle Bowen, of Mill Terrace, Glynneath, is accused of murdering 73-year-old David Williams, whose body was discovered in the Danygraig Lane area of Pontwalby, Glynneath, on Monday.

Prosecuting, Lisa Jones told Swansea Magistrates’ Court that the cause of Mr Williams’ death had been a “blunt force to the head and trunk”.

District Judge Chris James told Bowen: “You are charged with murder. That is an indictable-only matter, and therefore you will be sent to Crown Court.

“You will attend on Monday next week for a preliminary hearing. Until then you will be remanded in custody.”

Bowen, aged 28, will appear at Swansea Crown Court on February 3.

Before the hearing, the senior investigating officer, Detective Superintendent Darren George, of the major crime investigation team, said they were still appealing for witnesses.

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Mr Williams’ family at this difficult time.

“Myself and my team would like to say thank you to the community of Glynneath and Pontwalby. There has been a very large police presence in the village for a number of days and the residents have been nothing but helpful and supportive with officers and the on-going investigation. A police presence will remain in the area over the coming days.

“Despite the fact a person has been charged with the murder of Mr Williams, I would still ask people who were in the area between 2pm and 8pm on Monday evening to contact the incident room.”

Information and digital footage can be submitted to South Wales Police. Alternatively, call 101.