A GWENT Police superintendent has confirmed he believes illegal drugs were sold to a 13-year-old who died after being found unconscious in a park.

Carson Price, from Hengoed, Caerphilly County Borough, died on April 12 after being found in Ystrad Mynach Park.

He was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, where he was pronounced dead.

His family, paying tribute to the tragic loss, said: "Carson was bright and caring, kind and loving, he was a cheeky little boy. He was the best big brother and was loved and will be missed by so many."

Gwent Police are investigating and are treating his death as unexplained. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

But today (Monday, April 15) superintendent Nick McLain released a video confirming his belief that illegal drugs were behind the youngster's death.

Speaking in the video, Sup Int McLain said it was important to address speculation in the media and on social media.

"At this moment, we are still awaiting official medical confirmation about how Carson died, which may take some time. Until then we cannot confirm that taking drugs caused Carson’s death," he said.

"What we do know, tragically, is that Carson died in the public park and our enquiry does focus on illegal drugs being a contributing factor.

"Our enquiries to date have indicated that drugs were supplied prior to him visiting the park and as a result, our investigation is broader than Ystrad Mynach and our enquiries are extended throughout the Caerphilly borough area. We are particularly interested in Carson’s movement prior to him visiting the park that night.

"I believe, somebody, somewhere, sold illegal drugs to Carson and other people in the area will know who that person was. We will not tolerate this in Gwent. The supply of drugs can ruin people’s lives and we ask residents that if they have any information regarding these suppliers, please contact us immediately.

"I want to encourage people to talk about what has happened. You may have a teenage child that wants to talk, for example – and we all need to make sure they are given the confidence to come forward."

The superintendent said police were in constant contact with Carson’s school, Lewis Boys to ensure there is support for the children.

He also encouraged residents to continue using the park.

"No arrests have been made as yet but our investigation team are following many lines of enquiry," added Sup Int McLain.

"We are keeping the Police and Crime Commissioner fully briefed with the developments of this case.

"If you can help, please call us on 101 quoting log 523 12/4/19 or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"Alternatively, you can send a direct message with information via our Gwent Police Facebook or Twitter social media pages."