A police officer has died and another sustained injuries after an explosive device detonated in the northern Spanish city of Oviedo on Tuesday morning. The blast occurred as law enforcement officers investigated a suspicious backpack at the location of an earlier shooting.
Explosion During Neighborhood Dispute Investigation
Authorities responded early to reports of a dispute between neighbors and discovered a woman suffering from gunshot wounds. Police spokesman Pedro Aguado explained that while officers searched for the suspected attacker, they located an abandoned backpack featuring a flashing light and immediately notified the bomb disposal and canine units.
As specialists attempted to move the suspicious item outside to protect nearby residents, the device detonated. The blast resulted in the death of a canine unit member, identified as Juan José, alongside a three-year-old police dog named Deny. A bomb disposal officer suffered serious injuries in the incident.
Medical personnel transported both the wounded officer and the gunshot-injured woman to a hospital for treatment. The primary suspect managed to flee the location and remains at large as authorities maintain a widespread security operation near the scene.
Official Reactions and Tributes
Law enforcement agencies shared a public tribute to the fallen officer via social media, expressing deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues, and loved ones. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that he felt deeply shocked by the tragedy, praising the courage and dedication of the affected personnel.
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, opposition leader and President of the People’s Party, described the events as heartbreaking while offering condolences to the grieving family and wishing a full recovery to the injured officer.
A massive police manhunt is currently active in the area as officers continue searching for the fugitive suspect.
