BREAKING: A tragic discovery has shocked the Cardiff community as the body of Darren Meah-Moore, a beloved drag queen, was found covered with cardboard boxes just one day after he was seen leaving a nightclub with a man. This urgent incident took place in a lane near Windsor Place and Park Lane on January 22, 2023, prompting an inquest that opened at Pontypridd Coroners’ Court.
Darren, known by his stage names CC Quinn, Crystal Coutoure, and Dolly Diamond, was well-regarded for his vibrant performances throughout south Wales and beyond. Family and friends described him as a “social butterfly,” bringing joy and laughter to all who knew him. His husband, Darren Moore, expressed profound grief, stating he feels “lost without him.”
Witnesses report seeing Darren enjoying a night out in Cardiff, frequenting venues like the Pulse nightclub. After sending multiple messages to his husband on January 22, questioning his whereabouts, Darren Moore reported him missing after failing to locate him.
Cheryl Mardon, a cloakroom attendant at Pulse, recounted seeing Darren on the night he went missing. “He was always funny and happy,” she recalled, noting she saw him leave with another man towards the car park of Valentino’s restaurant. “He said, ‘Don’t worry, I have a mate around the corner,'” before parting ways.
The following day, Sean Rogers, licensee of Pulse, learned Darren was missing. Feeling compelled to check the car park where Cheryl last saw him, he arrived to discover a part of Darren’s dress visible beneath cardboard. “I called out, hoping it wasn’t the worst case scenario,” Rogers said. After confirming the grim reality, he contacted emergency services and performed CPR until help arrived.
Witness Nicole Townsend shared her account of seeing a man dressed in drag enter the lane with another male, but did not perceive it as suspicious at the time. Meanwhile, Darren Meah-Moore’s father, Lasu McKenzie, expressed his heartbreak, stating, “I felt dead inside and can’t move on.” He celebrated Darren’s talent and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting his performances at international events like Pride in Gran Canaria.
The inquest continues as officials seek to uncover the circumstances surrounding Darren’s death. This incident has left a profound impact on the Cardiff community, highlighting the importance of safety and awareness during nights out.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the community remembers a cherished performer whose light has been extinguished far too soon.
