A relaxing holiday on Spain's Costa Blanca turned to tragedy for a group of British nationals after a horrifying traffic accident that claimed one life and left two others fighting their injuries.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning in the popular resort town of Torrevieja. According to local authorities, a 4x4 Jeep, driven by a 53-year-old Irish national, mounted the pavement and ploughed into the pedestrians.
The driver, who was arrested at the scene, is suspected of being under the influence of drugs at the time of the collision. Initial reports from the Guardia Civil indicate he failed a mandatory drug test.
A Devastating Scene
Emergency services rushed to the scene on the N-332 road near the Hotel Palacio de la Música to find a scene of devastation. A 48-year-old British woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other British nationals, a man and a woman, sustained severe injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals.
One of the survivors is understood to be in a critical condition and is fighting for their life. The close-knit British expat community in the area has been left reeling from the shock of the event.
Ongoing Investigation
The Irish motorist remains in police custody as the investigation continues. Officers are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the vehicle leaving the carriageway.
"The driver tested positive for drugs," a local police source confirmed. "He has been arrested on suspicion of reckless homicide and driving under the influence of narcotics."
The Foreign Office has confirmed it is in contact with local authorities and is offering support to the families of those affected. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drug-driving.
