Fabiola Mbulito, a 12-year-old basketball player recognized as a rising star in Spanish youth sports, died in a drowning at La Laja beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The incident occurred on Tuesday, when powerful waves swept two children into the sea. Emergency services rescued an 11-year-old boy, but despite an extensive search, Mbulito could not be saved.
The beach, at the southern exit of the city, is known for its unpredictable currents. A large-scale rescue operation was launched on the day of the incident. It involved a helicopter from the Grupo de Emergencias y Salvamento (GES) and Maritime Rescue, alongside the Guardia Civil and Las Palmas firefighters. The Canary Emergency Service (SUC) and national and local police also took part. After several hours, authorities confirmed the young athlete’s death.
In a report published on October 20, 2026, Canarias7 revisited Mbulito’s death, which took place during the summer. The report quoted Pedro Quevedo, councillor for Ciudad de Mar in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, saying that “the current was faster than the lifeguard.” It said his description prompted indignant reactions. It also noted that beach users had been calling for repairs to the seawall, part of which later collapsed onto the beach in October. The seawall concerns and the drowning are distinct issues; the report did not establish that the wall’s condition caused the death.
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) and ACB, along with the Canary Basketball Federation and numerous clubs, have publicly expressed their condolences. They have offered support to her family and teammates, as well as to her friends. Fernando Clavijo, president of the Canary Islands, also shared his sympathy on social media, highlighting the profound impact of the tragedy.
Known for her athleticism and commitment, Mbulito stood out on the court and dedicated herself to her studies. She also had a positive attitude. 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 impressive speed and jumping ability for her age. They praised her cheerful, sociable personality and said peers and staff alike respected her.
The incident has drawn attention to the dangers along the Canary Islands’ extensive coastline, which stretches over 1,500 kilometers. Aquatic safety associations report that 72 people drowned in the archipelago in 2024, a figure consistent with previous years. The risks at local beaches remain a concern for residents and visitors, especially in areas known for strong currents.
As 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. 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.
Mbulito’s death is a stark reminder of the unpredictable hazards of the sea and the need for 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.
