On Saturday, Sario Hess and his girlfriend Jacline arrived at the Medusa Beach Club in Palma de Mallorca, both covered in bruises and wounds, with scrapes on their legs and bandages on their arms and face. Hess, 28 years old, recounted how the establishment collapsed while they were waiting for dinner on the terrace, with the worst injuries being internal. One of the two German women who died in the collapse was a 20-year-old who was on vacation for just a week on the island. The collapse resulted in the death of four people and injuries to 16 others, sparking investigations into the legality of the building and any recent construction work that may have led to the collapse.
The Medusa Beach Club, located on the Playa de Palma waterfront, saw its terrace collapse onto the ground floor, which in turn collapsed into the basement. While the property did not appear to have a first floor in the land registry, the owner, Christian Arnsteiner, insisted that everything was in order and that no structural work had been done recently, only cosmetic updates due to salt damage. Hess, who was sitting on the terrace when it collapsed, recounted being trapped but eventually rescued. The area where the club is located is popular among German, Dutch, and Austrian tourists, known for its lively atmosphere and variety of establishments serving drinks and food.
The owner of the Medusa Beach Club expressed shock at the collapse, especially mourning the death of an employee who was found under the rubble. The atmosphere in the area is described as vibrant, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists. The beachfront location is a popular spot for tourists throughout the year, with the winter season attracting retirees and summer bringing in young travelers. The collapse has left locals and tourists alike in shock, with the community coming together to show support and pay tribute to the victims of the tragedy.
Initial investigations revealed that the three women who died were on the upper floor, while the man who died was on the ground floor where the terrace collapsed. The material used in the construction of the building’s floor, a type of sandstone called marés commonly found in the Balearic Islands, was also mentioned. The aftermath of the collapse has become a makeshift memorial, filled with flowers, balloons, and messages of remembrance and support. Some of the injured have been discharged from the hospital, while others are still receiving medical care and treatment for their injuries.
As the investigation into the cause of the collapse continues, questions remain about the safety of the building and the responsibility of the owner and authorities. The tragic incident has affected not only those directly involved but also the entire community, prompting reflections on the significance of ensuring the safety of structures and the well-being of individuals in public spaces. The memories of those who lost their lives in the collapse will be cherished and honored by those who knew them, while efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future are underway.
