Authorities in Spain are intensifying their search for the suspect who brutally stabbed an 11-year-old boy, named Mateo, on a football field in Mocejón, a small town in Toledo.
The horrific incident occurred on Sunday when a hooded man entered the football field where Mateo was playing with friends and fatally attacked him with a sharp object. The assailant fled the scene, and the community has been left in shock and mourning.
Major operation
The Guardia Civil has launched a major operation to track down the killer. It includes a “cage operation” that has deployed numerous resources, including a helicopter and a dozen patrol units from the Judicial Police Unit. Furthermore the Information Group of the Toledo Command has been included. Reinforcements from the Community of Madrid have also joined the search, which includes underwater units and aerial surveillance. Despite the extensive efforts, the suspect, described as a hooded man, remains at large.
Three days of official mourning
The town of Mocejón, home to just over 5,000 residents, has been deeply shaken by the tragedy. The local government has declared three days of official mourning. On Sunday, the residents gathered to express their sorrow and disbelief over the senseless killing of a young, innocent boy who was simply enjoying a game of football with his friends. The town’s mayor, Concepción Cedillo, emphasised the profound pain the community feels, particularly because the victim was a child.
Minute of silence
In a show of solidarity and respect, the Provincial Council of Toledo, led by Cedillo, will hold a minute of silence at noon on Monday at its headquarters in the regional capital. This act of remembrance will honour not only Mateo but also a 17-year-old girl who was tragically shot and killed by her stepfather in Otero, Toledo, on Saturday.
Shock and disbelief
Mateo’s family, devastated by the loss, has pleaded for justice. A cousin of the victim recounted the moment when they learned of the attack, revealing the shock and disbelief that still grips the family. The family has stated that they do not suspect anyone in particular and are relying on the authorities to bring the perpetrator to justice. Not only the family but the entire community remains in shock, struggling to comprehend how such a brutal crime could happen in their quiet town.