British holidaymaker dies in Cape Verde chair attack during Santa Maria brawl
A 25-year-old British man has tragically died after being struck with a chair during a violent brawl while on holiday in the popular tourist destination of Cape Verde. Dean Taylor, a sales worker from south-east London, lost his life en route to Dr. Ramiro Figueira Hospital on January 7 following what authorities have described as an 'altercation' in the Santa Maria area on the island of Sal.
Violent assault details emerge
According to police statements, the victim became 'involved in a disagreement with a group of about ten individuals of Cape Verdean nationality' during the early hours of January 7. The confrontation escalated dramatically when Taylor was 'hit with chair blows' before suffering 'several punches and kicks' while lying on the ground. The assailants reportedly 'abandoned the scene immediately' after the violent attack.
The Judicial Police of Cape Verde confirmed that the incident occurred around 3:00am on the pedestrian street of Santa Maria, adjacent to the Calema Pub. Their initial statement described the altercation as occurring 'between a group of national and international individuals' which resulted in the death of what they initially identified as a 25-year-old Irish citizen, though the Foreign Office later confirmed Taylor was a British national.
Family devastated by loss
Dean's father, Alexander Taylor, also from London, expressed the family's profound grief, stating they are 'devastated' by the sudden loss. The luxury brand manager revealed the heartbreaking moment he received the news: 'My brother-in-law that is in Cape Verde was the one that called me when I was at work on January 8 [to tell me Dean had died]. It was terrible. I wouldn't wish that to anyone - not even my worst enemy.'
Alexander described how his son had travelled to the increasingly popular holiday destination with three school friends on December 28, seeking to 'spend some good times there' during what was meant to be a relaxing break. Tragically, Taylor was due to leave the country the day after he was killed.
Five suspects arrested
Following intensive investigative efforts supported by the National Police, authorities have arrested five men aged between 19 and 35 in connection with the death. The Criminal Investigation Department of Sal made the arrests between January 7 and 8, with all suspects currently remanded in custody as the investigation continues.
According to family accounts provided by Alexander, the confrontation began when one of Taylor's friends was speaking to a woman, and a drunk man who knew her became involved. When Taylor and his friend saw their companion being 'abused,' they intervened to 'check what was happening and protect him,' leading to the argument escalating with other bystanders becoming involved.
Repatriation challenges and warning to travellers
The family has faced additional distress as Taylor's travel insurance did not cover repatriation costs, forcing them to pay 8,500 Euros to bring his body home to the United Kingdom. Funeral arrangements remain pending as his body is still with a coroner.
Alexander Taylor issued a sober warning to British holidaymakers considering visits to Cape Verde: 'Be very careful if you're going on holiday there and watch your back.'
A Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Cape Verde and are in contact with the local authorities.' The statement underscores the ongoing diplomatic engagement regarding this tragic incident that has claimed the life of a young British tourist in what should have been a safe holiday environment.
