SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Spanish police have launched an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter following the death of footballer Jesús de Miguel, who suffered a cardiac arrest after a collision with an opposing goalkeeper during a second-division match.
The Tenerife striker collapsed after colliding with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during Monday’s encounter, which was abandoned with the scoreline at 2-2.
The incident occurred deep into stoppage time when De Miguel challenged for the ball near midfield and was struck in the chest by Owono, who had rushed out in an apparent attempt to clear it. The goalkeeper received a straight red card following the collision.
Spain’s National Police confirmed on Tuesday that an investigation had been opened. Under Spanish law, deaths resulting from non-natural causes, including accidents, are subject to judicial investigation.
However, Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s chief prosecutor, José Luis Sánchez-Jáuregui, told news agency EFE that criminal proceedings were considered unlikely because the incident occurred during normal match play.
De Miguel, who was born in Madrid, began his professional career with Leganés B in 2015 before representing several lower-division Spanish clubs. He joined Tenerife last year and is survived by his wife and daughter.
In a statement, Tenerife expressed profound sadness over his death and extended its support to his grieving family, friends, and the club’s supporters.
Andorra, owned by former Barcelona footballer Gerard Piqué, also expressed condolences, alongside several Spanish clubs, La Liga, and the Spanish Football Federation.
Piqué took to X to express his sorrow, describing the tragedy as heartbreaking and wishing the late footballer eternal rest.
SNOW TV EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
The tragic death of Jesús de Miguel is a painful reminder of the risks footballers face, even during routine match situations. While competitive sport naturally involves physical contact, player safety must remain paramount.
The police investigation is necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, although an accident during play does not automatically imply criminal responsibility. Football authorities should continue strengthening emergency medical responses, safety protocols, and on-field risk management to prevent avoidable tragedies. Ultimately, no sporting contest should come at the expense of human life.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
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