A heartbreaking discovery was made in a field near the M4 in Llanmartin, Newport, as the body of 30-year-old father Marcus Barter was found in undergrowth. Marcus, who had been missing for over a month, was last seen on CCTV footage walking in Newport before his disappearance. His car was later found abandoned at the top of Wentwood, with his mobile phone left inside. On September 8, members of the public searching for Marcus stumbled upon his lifeless body in the undergrowth. Dental records were used to confirm his identity.
An inquest into Marcus’s death has been opened by Coroner Rose Farmer, who revealed that Marcus had previously expressed thoughts of self-harm. The cause of Marcus’s death has yet to be determined, and further investigations are underway to shed light on the circumstances surrounding his passing. The inquest has been adjourned until March next year to allow for more detailed enquiries.
Marcus’s family, who had launched a search appeal with Gwent Police before the tragic discovery, released a statement expressing their profound grief over his loss. His brother Simon Barter led the appeal and requested privacy for the family to mourn and process their devastating loss. In remembrance of Marcus, the family started to place flowers at Wentwood bluebells, a place filled with cherished memories of him.
The news of Marcus Barter’s untimely death has deeply saddened the community, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and support for those in need. As the investigation into his death continues, loved ones are left grappling with the profound loss of a young father taken too soon.