An 88-year-old British pensioner has died after being violently mugged outside his holiday home in Tenerife, with his wife witnessing the attack. Ray Cowen, from Blackpool, was fatally injured when two thieves attempted to steal his watch and his wife's handbag near their residence in Los Cristianos, a popular tourist area in southern Tenerife.
Details of the attack
The incident occurred on June 17 outside the couple's holiday home at the Victoria Court apartment block. During the struggle, Cowen was pushed into a stationary car, striking his head. His wife Judy, 79, saw the violence unfold. Emergency services revived him at the scene and rushed him to hospital, but he succumbed to his head injury two days later.
Since the robbery, three suspects have been arrested. One suspect, believed to be directly responsible for Cowen's death, has been remanded in custody after appearing in court. The other two suspects, aged in their twenties and 36, were released on bail following a court appearance.
Community reaction
Flowers have been laid outside the apartment block, with one bouquet reading: 'RIP Ray, We Will Miss You'. The death has sparked complaints from expats about rising violent muggings in the area. Expat Stephen Fox wrote online: 'Sad state of affairs. Fourth incident that I know of in this exact same area in the last three months.' He added that he witnessed a woman in a wheelchair in her 80s having her chain ripped off at 3pm.
Another British resident commented: 'It's absolutely disgusting. All Ray's family and friends are devastated by what's happened. This isn't the first time it's happened. RIP Ray. Thinking about you Judy and sending hugs.'
Victim's recent birthday
Ray had celebrated his 88th birthday just days before the attack at the Big Ben pub in Los Cristianos. A friend recalled: 'I met that man two weeks ago in Big Ben. He was celebrating his birthday with his wife and having a great time. Such a lovely man. Can't believe this happened. Rest in peace.'
Authorities are conducting an active investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the octogenarian's death.
