Ray Cowen, an 88-year-old from Blackpool, has died two days after being pushed into a parked car during a robbery outside his holiday home in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, with three suspects now arrested and police stepping up patrols amid growing concerns from local residents.
A British pensioner has died after a violent struggle with muggers outside his holiday home in Tenerife, in an attack Spanish police are now investigating as robbery with violence resulting in homicide. Ray Cowen, 88, from Blackpool, was pushed against a parked car and struck his head as he fell during a confrontation with two men attempting to steal his watch and his wife’s handbag. He was resuscitated at the scene by emergency services and taken to hospital in a very serious condition, but died of his injuries two days later.
How the Attack Unfolded
The incident took place on 17 June outside the couple’s holiday apartment in Los Cristianos, in the south of the island. Detectives believe the attack was an attempted robbery targeting the couple as they returned home, with the assailants allegedly trying to seize valuables before fleeing the scene. Spain’s Policía Nacional led the investigation, reviewing CCTV footage and witness statements that ultimately helped identify the suspects.
Three Arrests, One Held on Homicide Charges
Three suspects have since been arrested in connection with Cowen’s death: a 34-year-old Senegalese man already known to authorities, a 20-year-old Venezuelan, and a 36-year-old Cuban. The alleged principal attacker was arrested shortly after the incident and brought before an investigating court in Arona, which ordered his pre-trial detention on suspicion of homicide. His two alleged accomplices were released on bail after appearing before a judge, though enquiries into their roles remain ongoing. Prosecutors have said police have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation continues to gather evidence and forensic material.
Tributes From Family, Friends and the Local Community
Flowers have since been laid outside the apartment block where the attack took place, including one bouquet bearing the message: “RIP Ray, We Will Miss You.” Friends have described Cowen as a warm and popular figure among the local expat community, with one recalling meeting him just weeks earlier: “I met that man two weeks ago in Big Ben. He was celebrating his birthday with his wife Judy and having a great time. Such a lovely man. Can’t believe this happened. Rest in peace.” Cowen is believed to have died only a few days after celebrating his own birthday.
Residents Voice Anger Over Rising Crime
The killing has prompted anger among expats living in the area, many of whom say it reflects a wider pattern of robberies targeting elderly residents and tourists. Local resident Stephen Fox wrote online: “Sad state of affairs. Fourth incident that I know of in this exact same area in the last three months,” adding that he had separately witnessed an attack on an elderly woman nearby: “I witnessed a woman in a wheelchair in her 80s getting her chain ripped off her at 3pm.” Another British resident described the killing as “absolutely disgusting,” adding that “all Ray’s family and friends are devastated by what’s happened.”
In response to these concerns, local authorities have increased police patrols in parts of Los Cristianos. The British Consulate in Spain has confirmed it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance to Cowen’s family as the investigation continues.
