Traffic Disaster in Vilanova de Arousa Leaves Dozens Wounded as Party Tent Collapses
A serious traffic and crowd-control incident unfolded late Sunday night in Vilanova de Arousa, Pontevedra, during a festive gathering for the patron saints of San Miguel de Deiro. What began as a moment of revelry escalated when a vehicle lost control and plowed into a crowd beneath a party tent, resulting in multiple injuries and structural damage to the venue.
Preliminary reports indicate that at least four people were transported to health centers, including one child. First assessments suggested serious injuries, though authorities were still determining the full extent of harm as the night progressed.
At approximately 11:25 p.m., emergency services were alerted to the incident involving a smart car that reportedly accelerated unexpectedly, coming to rest near the concert box where the event was taking place. Early statements identified the driver as a female, though details about the accompanying passenger were initially unclear.
Investigations point to a loss of vehicle control that caused the car to collide with the tented area. The impact knocked down portions of the structure, aggravating the danger for concertgoers and increasing the number of injuries. Rescue teams quickly arrived to assess the scene and secure the area.
Ribadumia firefighters joined other emergency units to prevent further damage to the building and to stabilize the damaged enclosure. A large number of ambulances lined the streets as responders worked through the night to reach those in need, often navigating tight spaces and crowded lanes created by the chaotic scene.
Even as the night wore on, performers continued to call for calm and cooperation from the crowd to allow medical personnel to reach the injured. The orchestra’s singers urged attendees to give way to those receiving urgent care and to avoid obstructing emergency access paths.
Emergency services remained on site after midnight, prioritizing care for those with minor injuries while continuing to monitor the stability of the damaged structure. The atmosphere among responders was tense at times, yet they remained focused on stabilizing patients and preserving safety in the aftermath of the collapse.
Local authorities, including the police and Civil Guards, coordinated with Ribadumia Firefighters to support the already fragile venue and prevent further danger as night turned into early morning. The hall itself had already shown signs of wear and the incident underscored ongoing maintenance concerns in the area.
By Sunday night, the warm weather amplified the intensity of the neighborhood festivities in San Miguel de Deiro, a traditional celebration drawing residents from across the municipality. The event area remained active, drawing families and visitors even as safety teams worked to manage the scene.
With the clock still ticking toward the end of a long weekend, attendees of all ages remained near the campus area. Some families learned that children had not yet been collected, despite a school day following the celebration. Local leadership, including the mayor Gonzalo Durán and several councilors, arrived at the site to oversee the response and support communities affected by the accident. The scene underscored the delicate balance between communal celebration and public safety, and authorities pledged to review safety measures and structural conditions at venues hosting large gatherings. [Source: Local emergency services and municipal records]