A judicial inquiry has commenced into the death of a young man discovered on a riverbank in Gwent.

Saad Shogar, aged 22, of Dolphin Street in Newport, who was originally from Darfur, was found on the embankment of the River Usk on March 21, 2026, adjacent to a property on Argosy Way.

Caroline Saunders, Senior Area Coroner for Gwent, initiated the inquest into Mr Shogar’s death on Monday, March 30.

Several emergency services attended, but Mr Shogar was declared deceased at the location.

A complete post-mortem examination is pending and a comprehensive toxicology report is required, though the coroner has indicated that evidence presently points to drowning as the cause of death.

Police identified Mr Shogar through photographs, assistance from his family, and his notable tattoos.

The inquest has been adjourned to enable additional enquiries, including police confirmation of Mr Shogar’s movements prior to entering the river and his mental health.

The inquest is expected to resume on November 18 at 2pm.