A 50-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter of a well-known drag queen who was found dead in a city centre alleyway in Cardiff.

Darren Moore, a 39-year-old from Newport, was last seen at around 5am on Sunday while wearing full face make-up, a luminous green dress, blonde wig, heels and carrying a clutch bag.

Later that night, officers were called to an alleyway near Windsor Place and Park Lane where his body was found.

South Wales Police said on Wednesday they had arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion of manslaughter and he remains in custody.

A post-mortem has also been carried out, while further examinations are ongoing to establish the cause of Mr Moore’s death.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Raikes, leading the investigation, said: “Initial investigations have so far not revealed or confirmed any obvious cause of death, however extensive inquiries are continuing to establish the cause and circumstances of Mr Moore’s death.

“I would like to thank the community for the excellent support they have provided to this investigation so far, which has helped enormously, and I would appeal for anyone with information to please come forward.

“I would also again 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.”

Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have seen Mr Moore in the city centre during the early hours of Sunday to get in touch.

They also want to speak to anybody who was in the vicinity of Park Lane and Windsor Place between 3am and 7am.

An incident room has been set up at Cardiff Central police station, the force said.

‘Our social butterfly never judged others’

In a statement issued by police, Mr Moore’s family said: “Darren Moore was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend.

“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 GoFundMe fundraising page has been set up to raise money for Mr Moore’s family.

It said: “Anyone who knew Darren would know how he was never understated in his appearance and costume. His larger-than-life character and charisma were something that you’ll never forget.

“We’d like to support Darren and the family and give Darren the biggest send-off. If you’re able to and can afford a few quid, please donate what you can to ensure we do him proud.”

Tributes have been paid from across Cardiff’s gay community.

The Golden Cross, Wales’s oldest LGBT+ venue, posted on Twitter: “We are deeply saddened to learn of Darren Moore’s passing.

“Many of you will know of his long-standing support of the Golden.

“He was the life and soul of the party and would always be entertaining the masses, usually accompanied with a round of shots.”

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