Dramatic footage has emerged capturing the terrifying moment a man deliberately set fire to a popular restaurant in the heart of Benidorm, sending staff and tourists fleeing for their safety.
The incident, which took place on the bustling Avenida del Mediterráneo on the Costa Blanca, shows the suspect calmly approaching the establishment before using a lighter to ignite flammable material he had placed at the entrance. Flames and thick black smoke rapidly engulfed the doorway, causing panic.
According to local reports, the quick-thinking restaurant owner confronted the alleged arsonist, who reportedly made a swift escape on a bicycle. His freedom was short-lived, however, as officers from the Guardia Civil located and arrested him a short time later.
The fire, which broke out during a busy period, threatened to cause a major disaster in the tourist-packed area. Emergency services arrived promptly at the scene to extinguish the blaze and ensure the safety of the public.
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, the shocking event has sent ripples through the expat and tourist community in one of Spain's most iconic holiday destinations. An investigation is ongoing.
