Police manhunt after two groups of British tourists clashed in the notorious Magaluf strip, near where an Irish father collapsed and died
A manhunt is underway in Magaluf for a British tourist who knocked another tourist unconscious during a street fight between two groups of British holidaymakers on the resort’s notorious seafront.
The 20-year-old was left unconscious on the ground after receiving a blow to the head.
He had to be given a sedative after he regained consciousness and responded aggressively to emergency responders’ attempts to help him at the scene before they took him to hospital.
It was not immediately clear today what his current condition is, although he was admitted to Son Espases hospital with head injuries and possible internal bleeding.
The aggressor, described by witnesses as belonging to a group of British tourists who got into an argument in the street with a second group that also included the victim, fled the scene before local police and Guardia Civil officers arrived.
The incident happened at around 5.30am yesterday opposite Mulligan’s Bar on Magaluf’s Punta Ballena party street, close to where Irish father-of-four Michael Grant collapsed and died in the early hours of Monday morning.
A manhunt is underway in Magaluf for a British tourist who knocked another tourist unconscious during a street fight between two groups of British holidaymakers
Holidaymakers fill the streets outside Magaluf’s nightlife
British drinkers on the strip enjoy a night out with alcohol in Magalu
This is the last photo of Irish tourist Michael Grant who collapsed and died on the street in Magaluf in the early hours of Monday morning
The Magaluf party strip Punta Ballena is known for its drunken behaviour, which often escalates into brawls
A partygoer looks in dire straits after a heavy night out in Magaluf
A vacationer takes a nap on the sidewalk while her friend sits next to her after a night out
Detectives believe the 45-year-old physiotherapist from Waterford was involved in a street fight before he suddenly died.
A coroner had indicated during an autopsy on the day of Mr Grant’s death that injuries to his body indicated he had been hit by a car.
The Guardia Civil has so far found no evidence of a traffic incident and is now investigating whether the man had an argument with a street vendor before collapsing on Martin Ros Street near Punta Ballena.
Mr Grant is said to have taken a wrong turn and become separated from other members of his group after spending the afternoon drinking by his hotel pool before going out partying.
An autopsy revealed that the Irishman, who was on holiday with his wife Leanne and at least two of their four children and other relatives from Ireland, had used both cocaine and alcohol before his death.
More tests are taking place as detectives try to confirm their suspicions that his death was due to the drugs and alcohol in his system.
According to police sources, no investigation into murder or manslaughter has yet been launched.
A reliable source close to the investigation said yesterday: ‘The holidaymaker’s injuries were not life-threatening and this investigation is not a murder or manslaughter investigation at this stage, nor do we expect it to become one.
‘But we also look at the hours leading up to his death, because something happened that needs to be properly explained.
‘Everything points to this man being involved in a fight and being hit by a car. These are incidents that may not be related.
“There are still many unanswered questions that we need to find answers to.”
In a tribute to the deceased, St Joseph’s AFC Waterford Football Club, where Mr Grant was youth coach, said on Monday: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the sudden passing of our dearest club member and youth coach, Michael Grant.
‘As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us. He was a beloved friend and as a club and for his family, we need time to process this devastating loss.’
AFC Waterford paid tribute to their ‘dearest club member and child head coach’
Drunk Brits seen in Magaluf feeling the effects of a night out on the strip
A few holidaymakers stumble through the streets after a night out
Five tourists share a pizza and chips after leaving a bar in Magaluf
Tourists are seen in Magaluf on Sunday evening
“Michael was an integral part of our community, and his absence will be deeply felt. He was not only a coach, but a mentor and a friend to all the children and adult members of St. Joseph’s.
‘More recently, his dedication, passion and love for the children were evident in everything he did. He cherished each and every one of them, and I am sure you will all agree that his impact was immeasurable.
‘We extend our sincere condolences to Michael’s family: his wife Leanne, their children Kayleigh, Niamh, Shay and Sophia, his parents Sam and Marie, his brothers, sisters and extended family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time.
“We also want to acknowledge the grief and shock that our own children and members are experiencing. Michael was an important part of their lives and his loss is very personal to all of us.”