A 37-year-old man was discovered dead in a Las Tablas apartment. Emergency crews detected a strong chemical odor and signs of pepper spray. Police are investigating the circumstances and possible use of a 20-centimeter knife.
A 37-year-old man was found dead with numerous stab wounds in his apartment in the Las Tablas neighborhood of Madrid on Tuesday morning. Emergency services responded after neighbors reported a strong chemical smell coming from the property. Upon arrival, firefighters entered the residence through a window and discovered the victim unconscious on the kitchen floor, showing multiple knife injuries across his body.
Medical teams from SAMUR-Protección Civil attempted resuscitation, but the man, who held both Argentine origin and Spanish nationality, was already in cardiac arrest and could not be revived. According to police sources, a 20-centimeter knife was found near the body, and traces of a chemical substance—possibly pepper spray—were detected in the air. Emergency personnel experienced eye irritation upon entering, which reinforced suspicions about the presence of an irritant agent.
The incident took place in the Fuencarral-El Pardo district, an area that has seen increased attention from law enforcement in recent years due to its growing population and residential developments. The National Police's Homicide Group V has taken charge of the investigation, focusing on the circumstances leading to the man's death and the possible involvement of chemical agents. No information about suspects or motives has been released at this stage.
Cases involving both stabbing and chemical irritants are relatively rare in Madrid, but authorities treat such incidents with heightened caution due to the risks posed to first responders and residents. The use of pepper spray or similar substances can complicate rescue operations and may indicate an attempt to incapacitate or deter intervention. In Spain, the possession and use of pepper spray are regulated, and its deployment in violent crimes is subject to additional legal scrutiny. The outcome of the investigation may influence future safety protocols for emergency services responding to similar calls.
