A 12-year-old basketball player drowned at La Laja beach in Las Palmas. Emergency teams rescued one child, but could not save Fabiola Mbulito. The tragedy has deeply affected the local sports community.
A tragic drowning at La Laja beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has claimed the life of Fabiola Mbulito, a 12-year-old basketball player recognized as a rising star in Spanish youth sports. The incident occurred on Tuesday, when powerful waves swept two children into the sea. Emergency services managed to rescue an 11-year-old boy, but despite extensive search operations, Mbulito could not be saved.
The beach, located at the southern exit of the city, is notorious for its unpredictable currents. On the day of the incident, a large-scale rescue operation was launched, involving a helicopter from the Grupo de Emergencias y Salvamento (GES), Maritime Rescue, the Guardia Civil, Las Palmas firefighters, the Canary Emergency Service (SUC), and both national and local police. After several hours, authorities confirmed the death of the young athlete.
Mbulito was a member of Spar Gran Canaria and had recently been selected to join the Spanish under-12 women's national team. Her loss has sent shockwaves through the basketball community in the Canary Islands and across Spain. The Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB), ACB, the Canary Basketball Federation, and numerous clubs have publicly expressed their condolences, offering support to her family, friends, and teammates. The president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, also shared his sympathy on social media, highlighting the profound impact of the tragedy.
Known for her exceptional athleticism and commitment, Mbulito stood out not only for her performance on the court but also for her positive attitude and dedication to her studies. She was the niece of Equatoguinean player Puri Mbulito and cousin to Iris Mbulito, the Spanish international who was named MVP at the 2018 U20 European Championship. Coaches at Spar Gran Canaria described Fabiola as an outstanding athlete with remarkable speed and jumping ability for her age, as well as a cheerful and sociable personality who was respected by peers and staff alike.
The incident has drawn attention to the dangers present along the Canary Islands' extensive coastline, which stretches over 1,500 kilometers. According to aquatic safety associations, 72 people have drowned in the archipelago in 2024, a figure consistent with previous years. The risks associated with local beaches remain a concern for both residents and visitors, especially in areas known for strong currents.
While the sports world mourns the loss of a promising young talent, the tragedy at La Laja beach echoes other recent losses in Spanish public life. For example, the unexpected passing of Joan Roca, founding bassist of Antònia Font, also prompted widespread expressions of grief and solidarity within the cultural community, as reported in this coverage of Roca's death.
The death of Fabiola Mbulito is a stark reminder of the unpredictable hazards of the sea and the importance of vigilance, even in familiar environments. Her memory endures among those who witnessed her talent and spirit, and her story has left a lasting mark on youth sports in the Canary Islands.
