Homicide police launch investigation into on-pitch collision which killed Spanish footballer - but goalkeeper who clashed with fans shouting 'murderer' at him likely to avoid criminal sanctions
Spanish footballer Jesus de Miguel has died following a collision with goalkeeper Jesus Owono during a second division match in Tenerife.
The 30-year-old striker was admitted to intensive care after the tackle during Tuesday's match between Tenerife and Andorra FC in Spain's second division. The game was abandoned after Owono was sent off for the challenge that left de Miguel motionless on the pitch.
Tenerife confirmed de Miguel's death in a statement this morning, revealing he passed away at 8:00 a.m. after his condition worsened overnight following cardiac arrest. The striker had been treated for over five minutes while his visibly distressed teammates looked on, some in tears.
Police Investigation
The Homicide Group of the National Police in Santa Cruz de Tenerife has launched an investigation into the incident. However, reports suggest Owono is likely to avoid criminal sanctions, with his challenge expected to result only in sporting penalties under Spanish law.
Goalkeeper's Response
Owono, 25, has reportedly insisted there was 'no intention to cause harm' and is planning to apologize to de Miguel's family. The goalkeeper has closed his Instagram account after being subjected to chants of 'murderer' from Tenerife fans and abusive messages online.
Journalist Iván Alvarez reported that Owono is 'very upset' and that Andorra FC emphasized there was no ill intent, describing the action as a 'mistimed outburst' that 'went terribly wrong' but insisting there was no malicious intent.
Football Community Reacts
Tenerife's majority shareholder Rayco Garcia and president Felipe Minambres expressed 'unbearable pain' at the tragedy. The club has organized a tribute for fans at their stadium this Saturday at 18:00, with plans to transfer de Miguel's body to Navahermosa in Toledo at his family's request.
European football body Uefa confirmed a minute of silence will be held at all their matches this week, while Arsenal held one at training. The Royal Spanish Football Federation cancelled all domestic matches today, and clubs across Spain including Barcelona and Real Madrid offered condolences.
De Miguel, who became a father last year, joined Tenerife in 2025 and scored 11 goals in 30 appearances to help secure the team's promotion from the Spanish third division. His wife and baby daughter were reportedly watching in the stands at the time of the collision.
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