David “Dai” Richards, a 31-year-old father-of-three from Mountain Ash, Wales, tragically died after being struck on the back of the head with a vodka bottle while on a stag party in Prague. The incident, described by Richards’ family as a “blind attack,” occurred on Friday night. Richards, who had just returned from a family holiday the previous day, had traveled to Prague to celebrate a friend’s bachelor weekend.
According to the family, Richards had left home early in the morning, and by 10 p.m. BST, his partner, Jola Simms, received a call informing her of the critical incident. Richards was taken to a local hospital, but despite the family’s hope that he would recover, life-support machines were turned off the following afternoon.
Richards’ provisional cause of death has been listed as blunt force trauma. The altercation reportedly began with a conversation between two groups before Richards was hit with a bottle. A French passer-by administered first aid, but the father-of-three succumbed to his injuries.
Richards’ family, including his partner and three young children—Aurora, Bear, and Vienna—are devastated by the loss. His family members, speaking on their behalf, have described Richards as the “glue of the family,” a devoted father, partner, son, and friend, known for his energy and warmth. Richards was also an avid footballer, well-loved in his local community.
The family has expressed frustration over what they felt was a lack of support from Czech authorities during the ordeal. Meanwhile, a 26-year-old man has been arrested by Prague police in connection with the incident. Local Czech media reported that the suspect faces charges of grievous bodily harm and disorderly conduct.
A fundraising page has been set up to support Richards’ partner and children during this difficult time. His local football club and community have expressed their condolences, remembering Richards as a beloved figure in their lives. The UK Foreign Office has confirmed that they are providing assistance to Richards’ family.