Pictured: Brit, 50, who died after falling down steps at his Lanzarote bar ‘during fight with expat’
Pictured: Briton, 50, who died after falling down stairs at his bar in Lanzarote ‘during a fight with ‘troublemaker’ German expatriate
- A British man has died in hospital after a brawl in Lanzarote, Spain
- A man is being investigated on suspicion of murder, officials have confirmed
Tributes have been paid to a British bar owner who died in Lanzarote after allegedly being pushed down a flight of stairs during a fight.
Chris Thomas, 50, died a day after being rushed to hospital following the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning.
A 46-year-old German man described locally as a troublemaker who was reportedly banned from several bars and pubs in the island resort of Costa Teguise is in custody.
He was arrested on suspicion of murder and is in jail awaiting an ongoing investigation after appearing in court on Monday.
Friends and loved ones described London-born expat Chris as caring, loving and funny in social media tributes today.
Chris Thomas (pictured), 50, died a day after being rushed to hospital following the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning
Friends and loved ones describe London-born expat Chris Thomas (pictured) today as caring, loving and funny in social media tributes
Dozens of Britons have left messages on the Facebook page of The Clock, the bar Chris owned which remains closed after the tragedy.
Ken Moore wrote, ‘A huge hole has been left in our hearts and minds. A real gentleman. A sweet man. A great character. A smile that would light up any room.
“The world has lost someone very special. He will be missed by so many.’
He added, “It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to have you as a friend.”
Jen Blackburn wrote, “I have no words that can help in this truly devastating time. I am so very sorry that you all have to experience such a tragic loss. Chris was a friend to everyone… One of life’s real good guys. His passing will be felt so strongly by so many. I feel privileged to have known him and laughed so much. My heart goes out to all of you and you will all be in my thoughts.”
Stacey Lee said, “So sad to hear this, one thing I always noticed about Chris was his amazing smile and twinkle in his eye, may you rest in peace Chris.”
Tracy Wiles called him “caring, sweet and funny” and wrote, “We will all never be the same, but every day you will be in our thoughts, you beautiful man.” Love you so much Chris and now our friend.’
View of Costa Teguise, a tourist resort on the island of Lanzarote, Spain (stock image)
Staff at The Clock confirmed it was currently closed, saying in a social media post: ‘As you may know now or soon. We lost Chris. The clock is closed.
‘We will keep you informed.’
A local report said the incident leading to Chris’ death took place at The Clock, but well-placed sources said it had taken place at a nearby commercial center at a fast-food restaurant.
Police were called shortly after 3 a.m. on Sunday and assisted in providing emergency medical assistance before making the arrest.
The dead man’s parents are believed to live in Lanzarote, although he has siblings believed to be based in the UK.