Welsh Senedd Member dies suddenly
Hefin David has been Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly since 2016.
Last updated 13th Aug 2025
Welsh politician Hefin David has died.
Mr David, who was born in the Caerphilly constituency, was elected to Caerphilly County Borough Council at a by-election in March 2007.
He worked as a senior lecturer at Cardiff Metropolitan University, teaching human resource management and professional practice to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
In 2016, he was elected as Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly - succeeding Labour's Jeff Cuthbert, who became police and crime commissioner for Gwent.
In a statement, Welsh Labour leader Eluned Morgan said:
“We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time. "
“Hefin was a much-loved member of the Labour family. He served Caerphilly as a councillor and a Member of the Senedd with pride and passion.
“He was an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator – especially on behalf of his constituents. He will be greatly missed.”
Hefin had been Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly since 2016.
A Gwent Police spokesman said: "We were called to a report of a medical emergency at an address in Nelson at around 6.55pm on Tuesday August 12.
"Officers attended and after entering the property found a 47-year-old man unresponsive inside.
"Paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service also attended and confirmed that the man had died; his family are aware and receiving support.
"The death is not viewed as suspicious, and a report will be submitted to the coroner in relation to the death."
Gwent Police Chief Constable Mark Hobrough said:
"My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to all of Hefin's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time for them.
"After I joined Gwent Police as the chief superintendent for the area covering Caerphilly, I worked closely with Hefin on many occasions and I found him to be an engaging and thoughtful individual.
"A dedicated public servant to Caerphilly, his commitment to our communities will be a significant loss."
The Llywydd Elin Jones said:
“As a Senedd community we are all devastated by the tragic news of Hefin’s death. Our thoughts go immediately to his partner, our colleague and friend, Vikki Howells MS and to his cherished children and family.
“Hefin was so full of life and enthusiasm for his constituents and their causes. He was a passionate politician, loyal to his party, his country, and constituents. He was able to effectively work across parties and seek common ground.
“Hefin was particularly well-liked across the Senedd. He was our Commissioner with responsibility for Finance and undertook that role with diligence and skill.
“The news is devastating and reminds us of the fragility of life and the need for us all to support each other.”
Andrew RT Davies, former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, said:
"Heartbreaking and tragic news that Hefin David, such a young Member of the Senedd with so much to offer and give to Wales and the community he loved has passed away.
"My thoughts and prayers are with Hefin's family at this sad and difficult time."
Delyth Jewell, Plaid Cymru MS for the South Wales East region, also wrote of her sadness at his death.
She said: "The news about Hefin David is so desperately tragic. Hefin was always steadfast in his views, loyal to his roots, and he represented this area diligently.
Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Darren Millar MS, said:
“I am very sad to hear the shocking news of Hefin David's death.
“My deepest condolences go to Hefin's family and friends, and I would also like to extend my condolences to the Welsh Labour Party.
“He was a man who always stood up for his constituents and was respected on all sides of the Senedd.”
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said:
“I’m deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Hefin David.
“Hefin represented his constituency with tireless dedication. He brought passion, energy, and independence of thought to Senedd proceedings and our parliament will be poorer without him.
“On behalf of Plaid Cymru I send our profound condolences to Hefin’s family and friends at this desperately sad time.”