Spanish homicide unit investigates death of Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel

A Spanish homicide department has begun investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel after he was injured in a collision with Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono, according to Marca.

Tenerife announced that De Miguel had died from the injuries he suffered during the Spanish second-tier match.

The investigation is intended to establish exactly what happened and determine whether the case should be referred to the courts. The first stage is expected to include an autopsy to establish the cause of death and whether it was directly connected to the incident during the game.

Marca reports that Owono, who plays for Equatorial Guinea, could face a sporting suspension of between four and 12 matches under regulations covering violent challenges that cause serious injury.

The goalkeeper could also potentially face criminal proceedings on a charge of involuntary manslaughter resulting from negligence. Under Spanish law, involuntary manslaughter is divided into two categories.

Gross negligence carries a prison sentence of between one and four years. Less serious negligence can result in a fine lasting between three and 18 months.

Investigators will need to assess whether there was gross negligence, defined as a failure to observe even the most basic standards of care and caution. The report compares that principle with medical errors, where professional mistakes may lead to legal consequences depending on their seriousness, even when there was no intention to cause harm.

However, the existence of the relevant legal provision does not mean Owono’s actions will automatically be treated as a criminal offence. Marca noted that proving gross recklessness in a sporting activity would be difficult.

Owono made a forceful challenge in midfield as he attempted to prevent De Miguel from going through on goal. De Miguel’s heart stopped at the stadium, and medical staff tried to revive him for 15 minutes before he was taken to the hospital’s intensive care unit.

The club initially said his condition was stable despite being serious. His neurological condition later deteriorated and he died.

Reports said Owono was in a poor psychological state after the incident, even before he learned of De Miguel’s death.