On the night of New Year’s Eve, a troubling incident in the gay district of Sitges drew attention to ongoing tensions around LGBTIQ+ safety in the region. According to the Colors de Sitges association and local observers, three people were injured in a brutal assault on Joan Tarrida Street. Victims were treated after being struck and kicked while homophobic slurs were hurled. Local police began inquiries to identify all participants and determine whether others were involved beyond the three suspects already named by authorities (GAG Association).
Urgent calls emerged from advocacy groups urging an end to LGBTIphobia in Sitges. The GAG Association and other voices urged swift action and public accountability in response to the violence, emphasizing the need for inclusive communities and protection for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors (GAG Association).
Around 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day, a group described as eight young men and a girl reportedly confronted people outside a bar on Joan Tarrida Street. The confrontation escalated to punches directed at bystanders, accompanied by loud music. A video circulated by GAG Association documented the moment and carried a warning about homophobia in Sitges. Observers noted that the group appeared to move along the street near the entertainment district, where conversations were taking place, before the incident occurred (GAG Association).
The injured individuals were transported to Sant Camil Hospital for evaluation and treatment. Medical staff reported head, ear, and neck injuries resulting from the blows. After receiving care, the victims were discharged and returned home. Local authorities continued investigations to determine the extent of participation and to identify any additional individuals who may have participated in the attacks (GAG Association). The case has prompted discussions about anti-LGBTI violence and the safeguards needed to protect residents and visitors in Sitges.
Municipal officials indicated that the findings would be reported to the Mossos d’Esquadra, the regional police, once the investigation reached a suitable stage. The Generalitat police were also notified and shared the matter with the hate and discrimination service of the provincial prosecutor’s office, in line with established protocols. Sitges’ mayor, in collaboration with local police leadership, met with the victims and representatives from Colors de Sitges to assess the situation and review potential legal actions as the case progresses through the judicial system (GAG Association). The council is monitoring the situation closely and exploring possible charges as part of the ongoing investigation.
“Absolute condemnation”
The Observatory Against Homophobia stated a strong condemnation of the attack and notified Sindic de Greuges, launching an official inquiry. The organization also arranged meetings with Sitges’ mayor and engaged with both the injured and Colors de Sitges to provide support and shares of information about the incident (Observatory Against Homophobia).
Nearby in Barcelona, law enforcement reported a separate incident on New Year’s Eve at Plaza Cataluña Renfe station, where two men were targeted in a homophobic assault during train carriage travel. Four suspects—three men and a woman—were arrested and brought to justice following investigations by Mossos d’Esquadra. The violence reinforced calls for vigilance and stronger anti‑harassment measures in public transit and urban spaces across Catalonia (Mossos d’Esquadra; official statements). The public discussion highlighted the need for ongoing preventive programs, educational outreach, and consistent enforcement of hate‑crime laws to protect LGBTQ+ individuals throughout the region (GAG Association).