Spanish Police Officer Killed in Oviedo Backpack Blast During Dispute

MADRID, Nov 10 (OPA) — A police officer has died and another has been injured after a backpack exploded in the northern Spanish city of Oviedo. The explosion happened when officers from Spain's canine unit and explosives disposal unit arrived and examined a suspicious backpack following reports of a dispute between neighbours on Tuesday morning.

A woman was shot during the dispute and the suspect remains at large, according to police statements. Both the wounded woman and the injured officer were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment following the incident.

Spanish police paid tribute to the dead officer, identified as Juan José, in a statement published on X, expressing condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Police spokesman Pedro Aguado explained that officers responded to the scene early Tuesday morning after receiving reports of an argument between neighbors.

Upon arriving, officers discovered a wounded woman suffering from gunshot wounds and subsequently located the suspicious backpack while searching for the armed suspect. Aguado stated that the explosion occurred while the package was being moved outside to ensure the safety of area residents, prompting widespread condolences from national political figures, including opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo.