Police arrest 40-year-old man for murder after 'devoted' grandfather was killed in deadly machete fight between rival biker gangs

By JOSHUA HAINING, NEWS REPORTER Published: 16:20, 14 August 2026 | Updated: 16:26, 14 August 2026 A 40-year-old man has been arrested for murder after a 'devoted' grandfather was killed in a deadly machete fight between rival biker gangs. Tony Jones, 56, was found face down in an alleyway after a mass brawl between Hells Angels and Vikings motorcycle gangs in Pontnewynydd, south Wales, on August 6. Mr Jones, from Brecon, Powys, was given first aid by residents before paramedics arrived and rushed him to hospital where he later died from his injuries.  Two other people were also taken to hospital following the turf war fight where weapons including chains, machetes and metal bars were used. Police launched a murder investigation and an appeal into the whereabouts of Anthony Paul Jones, who is believed to have been driving a blue Ford Transit van. The force confirmed that a van has been located and a man, aged 40, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. A total of 25 men, aged between 18 and 73 have now been arrested in connection to the 'violent disorder'. Mr Jones's family has since spoken out about their 'much-loved grandfather' and 'devoted dad' after his violent death. Tony Jones, 56, was killed during a mass brawl in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, south Wales Mr Jones (pictured) died in hospital after being found by residents of the small Welsh village with a large head wound Police have arrested ten men and are seeking to speak with Anthony Paul Jones, 40 (pictured) They said: 'Anthony was, first and foremost, a much-loved husband and devoted dad. 'To us, he wasn't a name in a news story – he was our Anthony, and the hole he has left in our family is impossible to put into words. 'He was incredibly hardworking and always made sure his family was provided for. Sarah and the children were at the centre of his world, and he absolutely doted on them. 'He was immensely proud of his children and loved them beyond measure. Anthony was also a much-loved grandfather, affectionately known to his grandchildren as 'Grumpy'. 'He adored his grandchildren and was incredibly proud of them. Being their Grumpy was another very special part of the family life he loved so much. 'Anthony was always up for a laugh and loved nothing more than spending time with his family. 'We have so many happy memories of days out together, but some of our most treasured memories are the simplest ones – at home, music playing, laughing and dancing together during one of our many kitchen discos. 'Our lives have changed forever. Sarah has lost her husband and the children have lost their dad, and they are trying to comprehend a future they never imagined having to face.' Forensic officers examine the scene outside Pontnewynydd Sports and Social Club, which also serves as a British Legion club, following the mass brawl Mr Jones' Facebook profile contains references to Hells Angels, featuring this image of their moniker, 81 They asked for privacy and said he will be 'missed more than words can ever express'. 'Whatever else may be said, nothing changes the husband, father and Grumpy Anthony was to his family or how deeply he was loved. Anthony will be loved and missed more than words can ever express. 'We will hold onto the laughter, the family days out, the kitchen discos and all the memories we were lucky enough to make together.' A Facebook account believed to belong to Mr Jones shared posts referencing Hells Angels and its nickname, 81. One post featured the phrase 'Support 81 Nomads Wales', while a second was simply a picture with an equation, the answer to which is 81 – a known nickname for Hells Angels. Amid the cheerful family snaps reminiscent of any father and grandfather shared by relatives, pictures show he had the initials 'AFFA' tattooed across one hand, widely recognised as standing for 'Angels forever, forever angels'. Police were called to Pontnewynydd following reports of the brawl, which took place opposite a children's playground, at around 7.15pm last Thursday. Machetes, axes, knives and hammers were all said to have been seen, with at least one man reported to have taped a machete to his hand to ensure he did not lose his grip. Mr Jones, who lived some 30 miles away in Brecon, was found on the ground with a gaping head wound and was given CPR at the scene, witnesses said. Detective Superintendent Laura Bartley said: 'Firstly our thoughts remain with the family of the victim, who continue to be supported by specially trained officers. 'Our investigation is progressing at pace and multiple arrests have been made. 'Detectives are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding Thursday's incident, including the actions and movements of those involved before, during and after the disorder.' 'At this stage of our enquiries, we believe the violent disorder involved members of two rival Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs, the Vikings and the Hells Angels. 'Establishing the extent of involvement of those connected to the incident remains a key focus of the investigation.' Vikings and Hells Angels are not the only clubs to have a presence in south Wales – others include the Celtic Wolves and Valley Commandos.  Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.