A two-storey restaurant building collapsed on the beach in Palma de Mallorca on Thursday, resulting in the tragic loss of at least four lives and injuring 16 people in this popular tourism hot spot in Spain’s Balearic Islands, according to the country’s national police.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services reported on the X social media platform that seven individuals were injured “very seriously,” while nine others sustained serious injuries. They were promptly transported to various hospitals in Palma for urgent medical attention. As search and rescue operations continue, emergency crews are working diligently to secure the area. A spokesperson for the local police emphasized the need for silence to detect any potential survivors still trapped under the rubble.
“The terrace has come down, probably due to excessive weight,” the spokesperson noted, adding that the exact causes of the collapse are still under investigation. The initial emergency calls were received around 8 p.m., prompting a swift response from firefighters and police forces. Emergency services also brought in psychologists to support those affected by the incident.
Government Response and Support
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his deep concern and commitment to aiding the affected community. “I am closely following the consequences of the terrible collapse that occurred on the beach of Palma,” Sanchez stated on X. He confirmed that he had been in contact with local and regional authorities and assured that the government is prepared to provide “all the means and troops that are necessary.”
Sanchez also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. Spanish state-owned broadcaster TVE aired footage showing firefighters working tirelessly to clear areas of the Medusa Beach Club in Palma around 11:30 p.m. local time, with ambulances on standby at the scene.
