Former leader of Spain’s center-right People’s Party, Alejo Vidal-Quadras, survived a terrifying shooting incident in the wealthy Salamanca area of Madrid on Thursday afternoon. The 78-year-old was shot in the face in what has been described as an “execution-style shooting”. The incident, which took place at around 1:30pm local time, was carried out by a single gunman at point-blank range. The gunman managed to escape the scene on a motorcycle, according to reports.
Vidal-Quadras was conscious after the shooting and was rushed to a hospital in the Spanish capital. He is currently undergoing emergency surgery. Although he survived the incident, police have confirmed that the case is being investigated by a homicide unit. However, no arrests have been made yet, and authorities are looking into whether the shooting was commissioned by a professional.
The shooting occurred shortly after Vidal-Quadras left a mass and was on his way to a demonstration at the nearby European Parliament headquarters. Just hours before the incident, he had posted on social media about a possible amnesty for Catalonian separatists if they offered support to a new socialist-led government in Madrid. Vidal-Quadras referred to this as an “infamous pact” that would “crush the rule of law in Spain,” turning the EU country into a “totalitarian tyranny.” He added, “we Spaniards will not allow it.”
The news of the shooting has prompted authorities to request any dash cam or security camera footage that may have captured the incident to be handed over to aid in identifying the suspect.
The former Spanish politician surviving the shooting comes as a relief, but it has sent shockwaves through the country, leaving many concerned about the safety and security of public figures. Events like these raise concerns about political violence and the need for protection and security measures for those in the public eye.
Following the incident, the former politician’s supporters, as well as the public, have taken to social media to express their shock and concern over the shooting. This highlights the impact of such incidents on the national discourse and the sense of security of citizens in the country.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, there is hope that the perpetrator will be brought to justice and that measures will be taken to enhance the safety of public figures. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the security and well-being of political figures and public personalities, as well as the need for a swift and thorough investigation to address acts of violence and ensure the safety of all citizens.
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