Grieving family pay tribute to 'devoted dad', 56, killed in street brawl sparked by deadly turf war between rival biker gangs

By ELIZABETH HAIGH, SENIOR NEWS REPORTER Published: 16:04, 13 August 2026 | Updated: 16:11, 13 August 2026 A man killed in a street brawl between two rival biker gangs was a 'much-loved husband and devoted dad', his family have said. Anthony Jones, 56, known as Tony, died after being found face down in an alleyway following the fight in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, south Wales on August 6.  Police have launched a murder investigation after the altercation between rival motorcycle gangs Vikings and Hells Angels, thought to have been triggered by a turf war. Two other people were rushed to hospital following the carnage, which took place next to the village's social club and a building frequented by Vikings members. Some 20 men were involved, residents said, with one group reported to have 'tooled up' with weapons including machetes, axes and knives. Ten people aged between 31 and 73 have been arrested, with three so far known to have been bailed. Residents who found Mr Jones – who photographs show had a tattoo known to be linked to Hells Angels – attempted to give him first aid until paramedics arrived, but he later died in hospital.  His devastated family have released a tribute to him, describing him as a devoted family man who loved being a grandfather. Tony Jones, 56, was killed during a mass brawl in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, Wales last Thursday Mr Jones (pictured) died in hospital after being found by residents of the small Welsh village with a large head wound Mr Jones' Facebook profile contains references to Hells Angels, featuring this image of their moniker, 81 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.' They asked for privacy and said he will be 'missed more than words can ever express'. This week Gwent Police said they believed the 'violent disorder' was a result of a rivalry between motorcycle clubs, Hells Angels and the Vikings. Forensic officers examine the scene outside Pontnewynydd Sports and Social Club, which also serves as a British Legion club, following the mass brawl Police have arrested ten men and are seeking to speak with Anthony Paul Jones, 40 (pictured) 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.  Ten men aged 31, 33, 34, 39, 40, 40, 45, 59, 61 and 73 have been arrested in connection with the brawl, and three have so far been bailed. Officers have said they would like to speak to another man, 40-year-old Anthony Paul Jones, and have released an image to the public. They are also trying to trace a blue Ford Transit van, with the registration MA23 FLC, which they believe was involved in the disorder. Vikings and Hells Angels are not the only clubs to have a presence in south Wales – others include the Celtic Wolves and Valley Commandos.  Detective Superintendent Laura Bartley, the senior investigating officer, 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. 'We understand this incident will cause significant concern within the community. 'We can now confirm that Hospital Road has now re-opened following its prior closure to allow investigative work to take place. 'I would like to reassure the public that officers and staff are working around the clock to progress this investigation, identify everyone involved and bring those responsible before the courts. 'We are extremely grateful for the patience, support and co-operation shown by our communities while this work continues.' Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting log reference 2600255536, by calling 101, visiting Gwent Police's website or reaching out via social media. Information can also be passed on anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.