The town of Alginet faced a disturbing night when a homophobic assault occurred during the opening hours of a new brewery. Local authorities and community leaders described the episode as a serious act of violence that targeted individuals in a public social setting. Damian López, a representative of the LGBTI sector within the PSPV, stated that a young man named Xavi sustained a deep head wound and numerous facial and body bruises, while a woman who stepped in to defend him also suffered noticeable injuries. López shared these details on social media, highlighting the impact of the night’s events on several people and emphasizing the hateful nature of the confrontation. The post included a photo of Xavi’s injuries as documented by López. This account was corroborated by multiple witnesses, suggesting the incident was witnessed by several bystanders. The community is urged to come forward with information to help identify those responsible. The night’s violence did not end with the initial attack, as López noted that another person who tried to intervene endured significant bruising in the scuffle.
The Call for Additional Testimonies
Authorities described the events as taking place during the inauguration of a new brewery in the municipality. López indicated that investigators are actively seeking witnesses who can support the formal complaint. He added that the incident appeared to be witnessed by many, which should aid in the identification of those involved. The aim is to gather as many firsthand accounts as possible to establish a clear timeline and sequence of events. The effort is supported by Levante-EMV, part of the Prensa Ibérica group, and the hope is that suspects will be identified without undue delay.
“Within a few days they went out looking for our people,”
In the wake of the incident, there was a visible display of condemnation from the Alginet community. An evening gathering at eight o’clock, despite heavy rain, served as a public denouncement of the aggression. The injuries to Xavi and the bystander who intervened prompted calls for witnesses to come forward and share any information they may have. Medical responders required several staples to close the deep head wound and noted the extensive bruising on the face and body of the young man. López remarked that the rise in hate speech and far-right rhetoric has fostered an environment in which the Valencian community feels unchecked, urging faster action from authorities to protect residents. The sentiment echoed through social media posts that emphasized solidarity and a commitment to prevent future acts of violence.
Public reflection on the episode also referenced broader concerns about anti-LGBTQ+ violence in Valencia, linking this attack to ongoing intimidation faced by the local community. A message from López shared on social platforms highlighted the persistence of harassment and the desire for swift justice, while underscoring the need for education, stronger laws, and sustained community support to deter similar acts.
As part of the public record, a note from a social media post by another local leader emphasized that hate speech and violence must be addressed decisively. The post cited concerns about safety and the values of inclusion, yet it also acknowledged the difficulties in balancing knowledge and enforcement in the wake of such incidents. The shared sentiment called for accountability and a stronger commitment to upholding civil rights for all residents of Alginet and surrounding areas.
Civil Guard Investigation
The Valencia Civil Guard announced that it is examining the mass assault in Alginet, which occurred on the night spanning Friday to Saturday, July 1, and left two individuals injured, one of them aged 19. Officials indicated that investigators are considering whether the attack carried homophobic overtones. At the time of the report, the Provincial Command cautioned that there was not enough evidence to confirm a hate crime on the basis of sexual orientation, though authorities stated that this possibility was still under review. The investigation continues as officers seek additional information from witnesses and forensic assessments.
Condemnation from Cultural and Community Groups
Several organizations condemned the aggression and joined with the town council in a public stance against violence. An anti-violence rally was held at the church door on a Monday evening to express solidarity with the victims and their families. Local political groups and community circles voiced support for the affected neighbors and pledged to accompany them through the judicial process. Among the groups offering support were Cercle Podem Alginet and Cercle Idea Alginet, both of which joined in denouncing the attack and standing with those affected. Other civic entities, such as the Alginet Musical Art Society, reported that several of their members faced hostility from outsiders and reaffirmed their commitment to a safe, inclusive environment for all participants and supporters. The organizations stressed their duty to combat intolerance and to promote mutual respect through music, arts, and cultural exchange.
The Federation of Music Associations also expressed its support for the Alginet entity and especially for the victim. In its view, music communities should cultivate coexistence, respect, and unity, leaving no room for violence or discrimination. The collective affirmed that it is essential to uphold these values across all musical societies and cultural institutions in the region.
Together, cultural bodies and civic groups reaffirmed their resolve to protect individuals from discrimination and to ensure that justice serves all members of the community. The focus remains on safeguarding inclusive spaces where people can enjoy cultural life without fear, and on strengthening laws and educational efforts to reduce prejudice across Valencia and beyond. Source attributions: Levante-EMV and related local outlets provide ongoing coverage of the incident and subsequent investigations.