Amparo Montalva Gonzalez, a 52-year-old woman, was killed this Tuesday in Alzira by her emotional partner, who remains hospitalized in an uncertain location. The authorities have not reported signs that pointed to prior abuse, and her family did not suspect that she was in danger from him. Her brother, Tomás, recalled that there were disagreements and episodes of tension, but nothing in their observations had suggested severe mistreatment. He said, “I didn’t like that man, but I must admit that his behavior did not make us expect this. There was no indication of abuse, and even my sister never told us to be cautious.” He described a situation marked by arguments and periodic separations rather than a clearly abusive pattern, noting that the couple’s dynamic was hard to read from the outside and that they did not foresee such a tragedy.
Following Amparo’s death, friends and acquaintances began to notice warning signals that had previously seemed benign but now appear more troubling in hindsight. “The atmosphere was loaded with jealousy and tension, especially in the days leading up to the end of the relationship,” one friend told Levante-EMV, an Iberian press group that collaborates with this newspaper. They emphasized a climate of control and fear that many around Amparo had not fully understood, underscoring the broader social problem of gender-based violence.
According to initial testimonies and responses from those close to Amparo, the relationship had grown increasingly toxic with frequent disputes and controlling behavior. On the day before the alleged murder, the couple argued intensely, and Amparo reportedly expressed a final decision to end the relationship. The tension culminated in a fatal act around midday, with authorities noting that the alleged assailant’s phone had been switched off since early afternoon and his whereabouts remained unknown. Investigators from the Valencia Homicide Unit are examining the sequence of events that led to the tragedy, including the possibility that Amparo had left her home and gone to confront the person she believed was a threat.
As the investigation continues, Amparo’s family is preparing for the difficult days ahead, including the public grieving process and a private funeral. They have asked for privacy and respect during the service, which will be held at the Parish of the Virgin of Lluch after the body is received. This incident marks the first case of sexist violence reported in the Valencian Community this year, prompting local officials and community members to reflect on the resources and support networks available to people experiencing intimidation or coercive control in intimate relationships.
In Spain, resources exist to assist those affected by gender-based violence. The national helpline 016 provides confidential guidance in multiple languages for survivors of physical, psychological, sexual, economic, or other forms of violence; the line does not appear on the caller’s billing records. For those needing urgent assistance, emergency services can be reached through the 112 system. These services emphasize rapid response and expert support in moments of danger or crisis.