Tragic Accident at RCD Espanyol Stadium: A Detailed Account
Overview of the Incident
Yesterday, a driver was arrested after hitting 17 people near the RCD Espanyol stadium before the derby against Barcelona. Surprisingly, the driver tested negative for alcohol and drugs. The incident occurred when the driver entered an open road at Avenida de Llobregat and found herself surrounded by fans. She reportedly felt overwhelmed and tried to accelerate to leave the scene, leading to the tragic accident. The latest update reveals that 17 people were injured, with four still hospitalized, including one in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (UCI).
Sequence of Events
The incident unfolded at 9:02 pm as fans were entering the Espanyol stadium in Cornellà for the match against FC Barcelona. The police commissioner, Eduard Sallent, explained that the street was not closed to traffic due to sudden and short-lived crowding moments. The driver, caught in the midst of fans, made a regrettable decision to accelerate. Police sources suggest that such incidents are not uncommon during game days, but the acceleration by the driver was an unprecedented response.
Legal Ramifications and Police Investigation
The detained driver remains in the hospital pending judicial proceedings. The police report will determine the possible charges, with injury to the victims being a primary concern. Commissioner Sallent emphasized that the incident was likely accidental, stemming from an individual fleeing a crowded area. The police, including riot police (BRIMO), intervened to escort the driver and secure the scene after the multiple collisions.
Aftermath and Impact on the Football Match
Initial concerns and rumors about the incident’s severity led to discussions about canceling the match. However, after assessing the situation, authorities proceeded with the game as planned. Commissioner Sallent assured that there was no immediate threat to the event’s security, and the injured individuals were reportedly in stable condition. The Espanyol club expressed solidarity with the victims and wished them a speedy recovery.
Reactions and Legal Consequences
The RCD Espanyol club expressed solidarity with the victims, and fans affected by the incident were encouraged to return to the stadium soon. However, the accident had direct repercussions during the match, with a fan breaching security measures by entering the field. The fan, Cristian García Martín, was fined for his actions, leading to unrest among other supporters who believed the game should have been suspended.
Law Enforcement Actions
Furthermore, seven individuals were arrested by the Mossos d’Esquadra, with charges ranging from theft to violent robbery. The police deployed a significant security operation during the match to maintain order and address any disturbances that arose.
Conclusion
Despite the tragic incident before the RCD Espanyol match, swift actions by law enforcement and authorities helped manage the situation. The driver’s accidental decision resulted in injuries, but the community rallied together to support the victims and resume normalcy after the event.
FAQs
1. Was the driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
No, the driver tested negative for alcohol and drugs following the incident.
2. What legal actions were taken against the driver and other individuals involved?
The driver remains detained pending a judicial process, while other individuals involved in separate incidents face charges related to theft and violent behavior.