Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
A harrowing incident unfolded following a La Liga match between Espanyol and Barcelona on Thursday night, as a vehicle struck a group of Espanyol fans, resulting in multiple injuries. The terrifying event occurred outside the RCDE Stadium, where a white car plowed into a crowd of supporters, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. This article provides updates regarding the incident and the state of the injured Espanyol fans.
Vehicle Strikes Espanyol Fans: Details of La Liga Incident
The vehicle accelerated into the assembled supporters, triggering panic among onlookers, while riot police pursued the car. Authorities were observed filming some fans and using batons on others as they worked to disperse the area. Local law enforcement reported that 13 individuals sustained injuries in the event; fortunately, none are considered to be in critical condition.
Official Statements on the Incident
The Police of Catalonia issued a statement confirming the incident:
- “Several people injured near Espanyol stadium after being hit by a vehicle.”
- “The situation is controlled, and in no case does it pose a risk to people inside the sports venue.”
- “The injured people are being treated by emergency services and the driver of the vehicle has been arrested. There is a large police presence in the area.”
Authorities confirmed that three individuals in “mild condition” received medical attention at Sant Joan de Deu Barcelona Hospital, a pediatric facility.
Hospital Updates and Treatment of Injured Fans
Further reports indicated that four additional supporters were admitted to two other hospitals and are in “less serious condition.” Medical personnel treated five individuals at the scene, with one being discharged shortly after assessment.
Investigation into the Collision
While an arrest has been made, the motive behind this unsettling collision remains under investigation. Salvador Illa, the president of the Catalonia government, characterized the event as an accident.
Illa stated: “It was an accident, there were some injuries, none serious, fortunately.”
“The security and assistance services reacted quickly, and the spokesperson for the Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalan police) has provided explanations to various media outlets, as far as I know, and therefore, there is no major incident to regret.”
Game Interruption and Aftermath
Referee Cesar Soto Grado briefly paused the match after news of the incident reached the RCDE Stadium. Some fans present at the ground reportedly wanted the game abandoned, and players are said to have interacted with supporters in the home section. However, after discussions between Soto Grado and both team benches, play resumed after a short delay. The public address system informed attendees that injuries sustained were not life-threatening.
Ultimately, Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory, with goals from Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez, clinching their 28th La Liga title and completing a domestic treble.