Tourist father of four who died in Magaluf street ‘may have been run over’ before collapsing and leaving mysterious bite marks on his body, coroner finds

An Irish tourist who died in the middle of a street in Magaluf yesterday may have been ‘run over’ before collapsing, it has emerged.

Michael Grant, 45, a father of four from Waterford, was found to have injuries to his legs consistent with a car collision, as well as mysterious bite marks on his arm and shoulder, during an initial post-mortem examination.

The physiotherapist also suffered a deep wound with glass in it after he was found unconscious at around 4.30am on Monday near the resort’s notorious Punta Bellena promenade, which is home to many bars, nightclubs and lap dancing clubs.

Investigators are now awaiting the results of a full autopsy, due to take place later today, to see if it confirms initial suspicions that the holidaymaker suffered a heart attack after a day of partying, or whether his shocking death is linked to something far more serious.

Mr Grant, who was on holiday with his wife Leanne and at least two of their four children and other families from Ireland, was staying at the Sol Katmandu Park and Resort before he tragically died.

He reportedly took a wrong turn and became separated from other members of his group after spending the afternoon drinking by his hotel pool before going out partying.

A source close to the ongoing investigation said: ‘The initial suspicion was that this man’s death was related to what he had eaten before his death.

But an earlier examination of his body, prior to the full autopsy, yielded some surprises and gave investigators cause for concern.

‘The injuries to Mr Grant’s leg indicate he was run over by a car.

‘At first glance they do not appear life-threatening, but they have opened up the possibility that his death was not an accident.

‘The researchers do not yet know whether the bite wounds are related.’

The source added that Grant’s friends and loved ones, including his wife, will be interviewed as part of the investigation to “gain a detailed picture of the final hours of his life”.

The group the dead man was part of were staying at the four-star Sol Katmandu Park and Resort in Magaluf. The hotel describes itself online as a popular hotel for families with young children.

A security guard working on the main street alerted local police yesterday, telling officers he saw the man collapse and fall to the ground.

Attempts to resuscitate him at the scene failed and he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

The dead man was identified by the hotel wristband he was wearing, as well as the names of his wife and children tattooed on his back.

A spokesman for Calvia council, which is responsible for the Magaluf area, had said earlier in the day that the dead man was British, but it was later confirmed that he was travelling on an Irish passport.

A statement yesterday said: ‘A 45-year-old man died this morning on the street in the Magaluf area.

‘It happened around 4:30 a.m. The dead man was staying in a hotel nearby.’

He added: ‘A worker at a local establishment alerted police and said a man was unwell and tripping in the street.

‘Local police arrived and performed CPR, but were unable to revive him. The Guardia Civil has taken over the investigation to determine the cause of death.’

A source in the Guardia Civil said early yesterday morning: “This death does not appear to be linked to a crime in any way, but the autopsy will be decisive in determining what happens next.”

A hotel employee added: “Mr Grant’s family and friends cried all morning” after hearing the news of his unexpected death.

Holidaymakers told of their shock at Mr Grant’s sudden death.

Friends Brenda and Shirley from Wolverhampton described his death as a tragedy.

Brenda, 65, told MailOnline: ‘It’s terrible that he just dropped dead in the street. Forty-five is not old, how could this happen?’

Shirley adds: ‘People do drink on holiday, but you don’t expect something like this.’

Mr Grant was head coach of the youth academy at St. Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club.

A statement on the Facebook page said: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the sudden passing of our dearest club member and head 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 come to terms with this devastating loss.

“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 at 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.

“In the coming days, we will share more information regarding any plans to honor Michael’s memory. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this challenging time.

‘Michael, sleep well my dear friend. You will be missed forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will live on forever in our club.’

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: “The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the matter and is providing consular assistance. As with all consular matters, the Department does not comment on the details of a specific case.”