Jealousy-Fuelled Murder Shakes Blaenavon
Duane Keen, 47, was viciously killed in the early hours of October 17 last year at a Riverside Drive home in Blaenavon. The brutal attack sparked an immediate hunt by Gwent Police.
Kai Pennell Slapped with Life Sentence
Kai Pennell, 35, from Torfaen, admitted murdering Duane. He also damaged an ex-partner’s car on the same night. On Tuesday 24 February, Cardiff Crown Court handed him a life sentence, with a minimum of 23 years behind bars.
Family Breaks Silence: “Justice Not Enough”
“Today a life sentence of 23 years has been awarded to Kai Pennell for taking the life of my son Duane. A loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Although justice has been given, the life sentence will never be truly enough, as we the family have lost our loved one who will never have his life to live and we now have to live the rest of our lives without him. We the family would like to thank the police, CPS and all the team that have worked tirelessly on this case and have supported us throughout the past several months.”
Police Issue Strong Warning on Knife Crime
Detective Chief Inspector Jitka Tomkova-Griffiths condemned the attack as “jealousy-fuelled and violent.” She said:
“Taking a knife from his own property implied that he intended to cause serious harm when confronting Duane in the early hours of that morning. His actions had devastating consequences and Duane’s death has impacted the lives of his family, loved ones, friends and community. I’d like to pay tribute to the friends and family who have had to come to terms with Duane’s death and shown great strength throughout this difficult process. I know today’s sentencing will never bring him back; however I hope this outcome brings some consolation and closure for them.”
Help Stop Knife Crime in Your Community
Knife crime continues to tear communities apart across the UK. If you have information about knife offences or anyone carrying weapons, contact Gwent Police immediately:
- Visit your local police station
- Call 101
- Send a direct message to Gwent Police on social media
- Report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
