An 88-year-old British tourist has died after suffering a heart attack during a violent robbery in Tenerife, Spain. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, June 17, when the victim and his 79-year-old wife were targeted by a robber outside the entrance to a block of flats in Los Cristianos, a popular holiday hotspot.
Attack and Fall
According to local media outlet Canarian Weekly, the suspect allegedly attacked the couple in broad daylight. During the assault, the 88-year-old was knocked to the ground, falling backwards and striking his back and head against the floor. The robber was reportedly attempting to steal the wife's handbag and fled the scene after the fall. The wife was also assaulted, but her current condition has not been disclosed.
The victim is believed to have been visiting Tenerife to celebrate his birthday, according to other reports. The impact of the fall combined with the stress of the attack caused the man to suffer a cardiac arrest.
Emergency Response and Death
Eyewitnesses called for emergency services, and the Canary Islands Emergency Service arrived quickly with a team of paramedics. They performed CPR and restored the victim's heartbeat at the scene before rushing him to a nearby hospital for urgent care. However, the unnamed 88-year-old passed away on Friday, June 19.
Spanish media outlet Sur reported that commemorative flowers have been placed outside the block of flats where the attack took place. An investigation has been opened, and police are working to locate and question the suspect.
