On Thursday, April 17, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Fuengirola, Málaga, when a car crashed into the terrace of the Don Santiago pizzeria, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries. The accident occurred around 10:00 PM on the Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, a popular promenade.
According to local police reports, the driver, a 45-year-old Iranian woman, was operating the vehicle without a driver's license and under the influence of alcohol. She was arrested shortly after the incident, facing serious charges including two counts of manslaughter due to gross negligence, as well as injuries caused by gross negligence and a violation of road safety laws.
The sequence of events began when the vehicle, traveling towards Marbella at an 'inadequate speed,' veered off the road. It first collided with a building column, which prevented it from crashing directly into the entire terrace of the pizzeria, potentially saving more lives. Witnesses described how the car rebounded onto the sidewalk, striking several people seated outside the restaurant.
Among the deceased were a 25-year-old pedestrian who died instantly upon impact and a 47-year-old woman who was a passenger in the vehicle. Emergency services reported that three additional men, aged 50 and 42, sustained serious injuries, while the driver and a baby in the vehicle suffered minor injuries.
The local emergency response was swift, with the 112 emergency service receiving multiple calls reporting the incident shortly after it occurred. Firefighters, local police, and national police all responded to the scene, providing necessary medical assistance to the injured and beginning an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Fuengirola City Council expressed its condolences regarding the tragic loss of life and extended wishes for a quick recovery to those injured. They noted that the local police were conducting thorough investigations to determine how such a devastating event could transpire.
Eyewitness accounts highlighted the chaotic scene as emergency personnel worked to assist the victims. One witness remarked, "The columns of the bar prevented the car from crashing into the entire terrace; otherwise, it could have killed more people." This statement underscores the potential for an even greater tragedy had the car not been impeded by the structural columns.
As investigations continue, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this horrific accident, raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of road safety. Local officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and preventing future incidents.
This unfortunate event has reignited discussions on alcohol consumption and driving regulations, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and stricter enforcement of laws designed to protect pedestrians and other road users.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to release more details regarding the incident, including any potential legal proceedings against the driver. The community remains in shock, mourning the loss of life while also hoping for the swift recovery of those injured.
In the days following the accident, local media outlets have been covering the story extensively, providing updates on the condition of the victims and the ongoing investigation. The tragic nature of the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences that can arise from reckless behavior on the road.
As the region prepares for the influx of visitors during the Semana Santa celebrations, local authorities are urging both residents and tourists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations. The hope is that this tragic event will serve as a wake-up call, prompting stronger measures to ensure the safety of all road users in Fuengirola and beyond.
The Fuengirola community is coming together to support the victims' families and those affected by the accident, showing solidarity in the face of tragedy. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives lost and to promote awareness about the dangers of drunk driving.
In summary, the events of April 17, 2025, have left an indelible mark on the Fuengirola community, highlighting the urgent need for increased vigilance on the roads. As investigations continue, the hope is that lessons learned from this tragedy will lead to safer streets for everyone.
