25 January 2023 , 15:42
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A drag queen was found dead in a city centre after last being seen wearing a blonde wig and diamante heels.
Darren Moore was found dead in Cardiff on Sunday, January 22, sparking a police investigation.
The 39-year-old, a well-known drag artist, was last seen at around 5am wearing full face make-up, a luminous green dress, a blonde wig, diamante heels and a matching clutch bag.
South Wales Police have arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion of manslaughter as investigations continue.
His family said in a tribute: “Darren Moore was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend.
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Darren Moore was found dead in Cardiff (PA)
He was well last seen wearing his full drag outfit (WALES NEWS SERVICE)"He was always the life and soul wherever he went, he was our social butterfly. He made sure he had a lot of time for people, and never judged others.
"Darren's husband and family want to thank everyone for their support but now need time to grieve and respectfully request privacy at this time."
A cordon remains in place at the scene and a post-mortem has been conducted by police.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Raikes, from the South Wales Police Major Crime Investigation Team, said: "Extensive enquiries are being carried out to establish the cause and circumstances of Mr Moore's death. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.
Police are investigating Mr Moore's death (WALES NEWS SERVICE)"A Home Office post-mortem has been conducted and further examinations are currently on-going to establish cause of death.
“I would like to thank the community for the excellent support they have provided to this investigation so far this week, which has helped enormously and I would appeal for anyone with information to please come forward.
"I would also like to respectfully ask people to refrain from speculating on social media about what has occurred and please let the police investigation take its course."
An incident room has been set up at Cardiff Central Police Station and specially trained family liaison officers are supporting and updating Mr Moore's family.
Investigations into his death are ongoing by police (WALES NEWS SERVICE)
Police are appealing for witnesses to get in touch (WALES NEWS SERVICE)Superintendent Michelle Conquer, head of operations at Cardiff and Vale BCU, said: "We understand there is shock and upset in the local and wider community following the death of Darren Moore who was a well-known drag artist in Cardiff.
"While an investigation is on-going, our Neighbourhood Policing Team as always will continue to provide a visible police presence in the city centre.
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"A police cordon is in place while enquiries continue at the scene, and we thank the community for their support at this time. South Wales Police is proud to represent and protect all communities that it serves.
"Cardiff has a long and proud tradition of recognising, celebrating and protecting equality and diversity. Anyone who has concerns is asked to please contact South Wales Police in confidence."