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Tragedy in Villanueva de la Cañada: a boy loses his life after a brutal attack

A boy loses his life after being brutally stabbed; the circumstances surrounding this tragic event have left the entire community in shock.

Sofía HerreraSofía Herrera· · 2 min read

A heartbreaking event shocks the community

The town of Villanueva de la Cañada is engulfed in grief following the tragic murder of David, an 11-year-old boy. The incident occurred last Thursday afternoon when the minor was attacked with a knife at the La Despernada Cultural Centre, just after leaving an English class.

At approximately 19:45, David was ambushed by his assailant in a secluded area of the venue, where he received multiple stabbings to the neck, chest, and back. An off-duty police officer nearby alerted emergency services. Despite the efforts made by the Summa 112 paramedics, who attended to the minor and evacuated him by helicopter to the Doce de Octubre Hospital, David did not survive and passed away hours later.

The alleged perpetrator of the crime is a 23-year-old man from Latin America, diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. After the attack, he fled but was later apprehended when he went to the hospital accompanied by his family. The magistrate at the Móstoles court has ordered provisional detention for him and has mandated his admission to a psychiatric module within the Navalcarnero prison.

The boy's mother revealed that she had tried to protect her son by warning the detainee to keep his distance. According to her statements, this young man had exhibited obsessive behaviours towards David. Additionally, several neighbours have corroborated that the suspect used to harass other minors and even brandish knives at them.

As the investigation progresses, the Civil Guard continues to search for the weapon used in this horrendous crime. The community is stunned by this tragedy that has left a deep mark among local residents.

This tragic event highlights the urgent need to address issues related to child safety and how to prevent similar situations in the future. Local authorities are under pressure to ensure that all children can enjoy their daily activities without fear.

Sofía Herrera

Written by

Sofía Herrera