Spanish Police Officer Killed as Backpack Bomb Explodes During Shooting Response
A National Police officer was killed and another criticially injured after a backpack bomb exploded while responding to a shooting in Oviedo, Spain.
POLICY WIRE — Oviedo, Spain — A law enforcement officer has lost their life and another colleague sustained severe injuries after an explosive device inside a backpack detonated during an operation.
The incident began early Tuesday morning when authorities responded to a violent confrontation between two families. At approximately 7:30 a.m., a man reportedly shot and injured a young woman on the outskirts of the city.
An hour later, around 8:30 a.m., the device exploded. The police union JUPOL confirmed that the blast killed a member of the National Police’s canine unit.
A second officer from the bomb disposal unit was also caught in the explosion. This individual is currently in critical condition after losing a leg in the blast.
JUPOL explained that upon arriving at the scene on Rafael Urrusti Street, officers discovered the backpack situated at the entrance of a building.
The bomb triggered while officers were attempting to move the bag away from the structure to neutralize the threat.
Spanish outlet El Pais reports that National Police have cordoned off the area and launched a major operation. The EFE news agency noted that Oviedo mayor Alfredo Canteli is traveling to the site to oversee the investigation.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)