Lorraine Williamson
A summer evening in Torrevieja turned violent on Sunday after a man was shot dead in a central residential neighbourhood just minutes from the popular seafront promenade. The incident, which unfolded at a busy time in the heart of the Costa Blanca town, has rattled locals and tourists alike.
According to the Guardia Civil, three suspects were arrested shortly after the shooting. Officers have confirmed the recovery of the firearm believed to have been used in the attack.
Deadly shooting in bustling residential zone
The shooting occurred at approximately 7.00 pm at the junction of Calle Pedro Lorca and Rambla de Juan Mateo García, a well-trafficked corner surrounded by shops, cafés and apartment buildings. The area, typically buzzing with evening activity during the summer season, was filled with pedestrians and residents when shots rang out.
Officers from both the Policía Local and Guardia Civil were quickly on the scene. The victim, found lying on the pavement with severe injuries, could not be saved. Paramedics attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at 7.40 pm.
Suspects caught within 20 minutes
Witnesses reported the suspects fled immediately after the gunfire. But by 7.20 pm, police had apprehended three men believed to be linked to the attack. A firearm was seized at the time of the arrests, and all three suspects are now in custody.
Investigators suspect gang rivalry
While the official motive has yet to be released, initial lines of inquiry point to a possible gang-related dispute. Sources close to the investigation suggest the killing may be connected to a long-running feud between two criminal groups operating in the region.
The Judicial Police Unit in Torrevieja, backed by forensic experts from the Alicante command, has launched a detailed investigation. A wide cordon was established at the crime scene to allow forensic teams to gather evidence.
Community shaken by brazen attack
News of the fatal shooting spread rapidly through Torrevieja, a town known more for its beaches, expat communities, and summer visitors than for violent crime. The timing and location—early evening, in a family-friendly area just a short walk from the seafront—have shocked residents and raised fresh concerns about public safety.
Police continue to interview witnesses and review nearby CCTV footage as the investigation develops.
Growing concerns over organised crime in tourist towns
Though Spain remains one of Europe’s safer countries, there’s growing concern about organised crime in some popular coastal areas. With Torrevieja’s population swelling each summer, maintaining public safety in such densely packed tourist zones becomes an increasing challenge.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether the victim had any prior criminal ties. However, Sunday’s events highlight the complex undercurrents at play in Spain’s otherwise tranquil holiday hotspots.