Two arrested for shooting Irishman in the head in Orihuela Costa
The 21-year-old victim was gunned down close to Zenia Boulevard shopping centre
A young Irish man remains in critical condition after being shot in the head in the Orihuela Costa area on the night of Wednesday May 13. The shooting took place close to De Bassus bar and near Zenia Boulevard, a popular shopping and nightlife hub frequented by locals and holidaymakers.
The 21-year-old victim was found with life-threatening injuries and was immediately taken to hospital, where he remains in intensive care. His condition is reported to be serious and he continues to receive round-the-clock medical attention.
Spanish authorities launched a swift investigation following the incident, led by the Judicial Police Unit of the Guardia Civil in Alicante. Investigators recovered a discarded bag in nearby scrub land containing a revolver, ammunition and the victim's mobile phone. These items proved crucial in identifying the suspects.
Two men, aged 27 and 45, have since been arrested in connection with the shooting. One was detained in Orihuela Costa and the other in nearby Pilar de la Horadada. They are facing charges of attempted homicide.
The 45-year-old suspect, believed to be the one who pulled the trigger, is being held in pre-trial detention without bail. The second man, understood to have aided and abetted, has been released on conditional bail and is prohibited from leaving the country.The suspects' nationalities have not been officially confirmed, though several Irish news sources have reported that both are also from Ireland.
The shooting has deeply unsettled the Orihuela Costa community. Local residents have expressed concern over safety in the area, particularly in zones that attract high foot traffic from both tourists and permanent residents.
Adding to public unease, a separate incident occurred on May 19 when an attempted kidnapping was reported in the same coastal area. The victim managed to escape and witnesses described a grey car, possibly a Volkswagen Golf or a Mazda estate, fleeing the scene.
For official updates or to provide information, Orihuela Costa authorities have advised that the Guardia Civil press office in Alicante can be reached at 661 848 789.
Images: Guardia Civil
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