Airport security staff at Tenerife South Airport were confronted with a horrifying discovery when they stopped an elderly man attempting to board a flight with his deceased wife in a wheelchair.
Chilling Discovery at Security Checkpoint
The incident, which left staff reeling, occurred at the metal detector checkpoint within the airport's security area. An 80-year-old man was pushing his wife in a wheelchair, initially appearing to be an elderly couple about to embark on their journey. However, a vigilant security guard grew suspicious when he noticed the woman was entirely unresponsive.
The guard approached the couple and the husband handed over the wheelchair. Upon taking the woman's hand, the employee made a grim discovery: her body temperature was alarmingly low and she showed no signs of breathing. The worker immediately alerted a supervisor, triggering an emergency protocol that brought numerous security agents, members of Spain's Civil Guard, and forensic personnel to the scene.
Conflicting Accounts Under Scrutiny
According to initial statements given to police, the elderly husband claimed that his wife had died just hours earlier inside the airport terminal, prior to their scheduled departure. However, some airport staff have reportedly provided a different account, suggesting the man attempted to blame the airport facilities for his wife's death.
This allegation is now a key part of the ongoing inquiry. The man was arrested for questioning and is currently cooperating with authorities. Spanish newspaper Diario de Avisos first reported the event, though specific details such as the exact date, the airline involved, and the couple's nationalities have not been publicly disclosed.
Investigation Launched into Tragic Circumstances
Officials from Tenerife Airport have confirmed that the distressing event took place several months ago. A full investigation into the woman's death has been initiated. It remains unclear at this stage whether any formal charges will be brought against the husband.
The case has highlighted the extreme procedures and tragic scenarios that airport security personnel can occasionally face. The investigation by the Civil Guard and forensic experts will seek to establish the precise timeline of events and the cause of the woman's death.
