Irish tourists 'rushing to leave' Spain after deadly shooting in popular bar

Irish Daily Mirror

2 days ago

The recent fatal shooting of two men at an Irish bar in Spain's popular Costa del Sol tourist resort has sent shockwaves through holidaymakers, including many from Ireland who frequently visit the region.
Spanish authorities have confirmed investigations are underway into the incident, which is one of several shootings reported in the area recently.
The victims, identified as Eddie Lyons and Ross Monaghan, are believed to be associates of the Kinahan cartel and major players in Glasgow's Lyons crime clan. Police Scotland have declined to comment further on whether the attack is linked to criminal activity in the UK.
Reports indicate that Ross Monaghan owned the Irish bar named after him, where the shooting took place. The incident has raised concerns among Irish and British tourists and expatriates about safety in what is usually considered a lively and popular holiday destination, Chronicle Live reports.
David Meddicks from Glasgow, who had left the bar with his wife just hours before the shooting, recalled the chaotic scenes to the BBC saying: "We went back to our hotel for food and later on at the reception of the hotel, two wee Spanish women ran in, shouting 'bang, bang, bang, bang'. We looked and we could see the police and all the blue lights. We had been thinking of going back down for another drink and decided not to bother. So I'm quite glad I didn't."
An Englishman who been in the pub also told the publication: "We were there an hour before and walked back later and found out what happened. It made us want to go home, to be quite honest. You go away on holiday and you don't expect this. Really frightening."
The attack happened in broad daylight, with the masked gunman firing at close range in front of stunned bystanders. Another tourist, Robert Sorman from Bathgate, commented: "You've heard of the Costa Del Crime but you never expect it to happen when you're here."
Those familiar with Monaghan's bar described it as a friendly spot popular with visitors to the BBC. The violent act has prompted a response from Fuengirola's mayor Ana Mula, who met with local and national police to address rising concerns.
She stated: "We live in a world and at a time where crime knows no borders. In places like the Costa del Sol, we're seeing developments that, as they spread, inevitably affect us. We need much greater involvement from the state on this issue. I intend to be relentless in demanding action on this. It's a top priority for our community and our city."
Meanwhile, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it had not yet been contacted for consular assistance regarding the shooting but is prepared to help if requested. This comes as the FCDO recently issued travel updates for Turkey and Greece following a major earthquake.