British holidaymakers enjoying a break in the sun-drenched Costa del Sol found themselves at the centre of a terrifying incident this week when a man was shot dead just metres from where they were dining.
Daylight Horror in Popular Resort
The shocking attack unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Fuengirola, a resort town popular with UK tourists. Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire erupted outside a restaurant where British visitors were eating.
"We heard what sounded like fireworks, then people started screaming and running," one shaken British tourist told reporters. "It was absolutely terrifying - you don't expect this kind of violence in a place where families come on holiday."
Victim Known to Police
The victim, described as a 33-year-old man of Albanian origin with a criminal record, was shot multiple times in the chest and abdomen. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Avenida Ramon y Cajal, but despite their efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries.
Spanish authorities have confirmed the victim was known to police and are investigating potential links to organised crime. The shooting bears hallmarks of a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence against tourists.
Major Police Operation Underway
Local and national police have launched a massive manhunt for the assailant, who fled the scene immediately after the shooting. Forensic teams have been combing the area for evidence, while officers are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding businesses.
"This appears to be a settling of scores between criminal elements," a police spokesperson stated. "We want to reassure tourists that this was an isolated incident and that the Costa del Sol remains a safe destination."
Impact on Tourism Community
The incident has sent ripples through the local tourism industry, with business owners concerned about potential damage to the region's reputation. The Costa del Sol relies heavily on British visitors, with millions travelling to the area each year.
Local authorities have moved quickly to emphasise that tourist areas remain safe and that additional security measures have been implemented to protect visitors.
British tourists in the area have been advised to remain vigilant but continue with their holiday plans, with the Foreign Office confirming they're monitoring the situation and ready to assist any affected UK nationals.
