Tragedy at Spanish festival as bull attack claims life of local breeder

A 33-year-old man has died after being fatally gored during a bull-running event at the San Marcos Festival in southern Spain, authorities confirmed.

The victim, identified as cattle breeder Santiago Barrero San Román, was attacked on Friday, April 24, in the town of Beas de Segura.

According to local reports, the bull charged at him at around 7:00 p.m., inflicting multiple injuries to his groin, chest, and abdomen.

Emergency responders rushed Román to a nearby first-aid station, but he succumbed to his injuries roughly an hour later while being transferred for further medical treatment.

Festival organizers confirmed the fatal incident in a statement, expressing deep regret over the tragedy and extending condolences to the victim’s family and friends.

Despite the incident, scheduled festivities were not suspended, though a moment of silence was observed in his honor in accordance with festival regulations.

The Association of Fighting Bull Breeders also paid tribute, acknowledging Román’s contributions to the bull-breeding community and offering support to his loved ones.

Román was a well-known figure in the field, having co-founded the Toros de San Román brand alongside his wife.

He was also part of a family legacy in bull breeding, as the grandson of breeder Antonio San Román.

Dating back to the 16th century, the San Marcos Festival is known for its traditional running of the bulls through the town’s streets, drawing participants and spectators each year.

Authorities have not yet announced further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.