Police in Spain are investigating the shocking discovery of a smouldering, headless torso found in a popular tourist area in Alicante, a destination favoured by British holidaymakers.
The gruesome discovery was made by a runner in the La Serreta area, west of Alicante city, amidst preparations for the traditional bonfires of San Juan. The torso, found by the side of a road, was still burning when the alarm was raised early yesterday morning. There were no signs of the victim’s legs, arms, or head.
Police are unsure whether the victim was male or female, although initial theories, pending a post-mortem examination, suggest the victim was likely male. The first hypothesis is that the incident could be related to a drug-related dispute.
Officers from the Violent Crime Group and Aerial Media Unit have been deployed to the scene, employing drones to search for the missing body parts. A suitcase was discovered nearby, but it contained no limbs or head.
The remains have been transferred to the Alicante Institute of Legal Medicine, where an autopsy will be performed. Forensic experts aim to determine the victim’s sex and identify any stab wounds, gunshot injuries, or other trauma that might have caused the death.
Given the state of the remains, identification will likely rely on DNA analysis. Police will also review missing persons reports in an effort to identify the victim.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly as the area is a beloved holiday spot for many. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their investigation into this disturbing incident.