Raquel García, a 56-year-old woman from Valladolid, died after a shooting during a hunting outing in Hérmedes de Cerrato (Palencia) on Tuesday morning. García and her husband, both licensed hunters, were hunting in the southern part of the province. Initial findings from the Guardia Civil indicate the shooting was accidental, with no evidence pointing to gender-based violence. Emergency services responded quickly, but García died of her injuries later that day despite medical intervention.
The shot struck García in the lateral abdomen and caused severe trauma. When Guardia Civil officers arrived, she was conscious but in critical condition. The couple were experienced hunters who regularly went on outings together, and both held valid permits. The subdelegation of the Government in Palencia confirmed these details and said there had been no prior incidents or indications of domestic conflict.
García worked for the Fundación Municipal de Deportes (FMD) of Valladolid, where she had spent three decades as a monitor for leisure and senior activities, primarily through subcontracted companies. The FMD’s management and the city’s sports councillor, Mayte Martínez, expressed condolences to García’s family, citing her longstanding dedication and positive reputation within the organization. Although she was not a direct municipal employee, García was well known and respected in Valladolid’s sports community for her work in local sports centers and pavilions.
The case remains under investigation as the Guardia Civil gathers information to confirm that the shooting was accidental. Authorities have ruled out any connection to gender-based violence and are examining the circumstances of the hunting activity. The tragedy has drawn attention to the risks of hunting, even among experienced participants. Similar incidents in Spain in recent years have fueled ongoing discussions about safety protocols and hunter training.
Among recent accidental deaths in Spain, this case echoes other tragedies, such as the investigation into the death of a woman found on Puçol beach, where authorities also ruled out violent causes. These incidents highlight the need for thorough investigations and clear communication from officials to prevent speculation and misinformation.
Hunting remains popular in rural Spain, with thousands of licensed participants each year. Most outings proceed without incident, but accidents do occur, often prompting renewed calls for stricter safety measures and greater awareness among hunters. García’s death has affected the Valladolid community, particularly those who knew her through her decades of service in local sports and leisure programs.
