An 88-year-old British pensioner died after being thrown into a stationary car during a violent mugging outside his holiday home in Tenerife. Ray Cowen, from Blackpool, was attacked on June 17 while trying to stop thieves from stealing his watch and his wife Judy's handbag outside their home in Los Cristianos, a popular tourist resort in southern Tenerife.
Attack and fatal injury
In the struggle, Cowen was pushed into a parked car and struck his head. His wife Judy, 79, witnessed the assault. Emergency services revived him at the scene and rushed him to hospital, but he died two days later from his head wound, according to reports.
The attack occurred just outside the couple's holiday home at the Victoria Court apartment block. Flowers have been laid there, with one bouquet reading: 'RIP Ray, We Will Miss You'.
Suspects arrested
Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the robbery. The man believed to have caused Cowen's death was remanded in custody after appearing in court. The other two suspects, aged in their twenties and 36, were released on bail following a court appearance.
One suspect was already known to authorities for similar mugging crimes, according to sources.
Expats raise safety concerns
The death has sparked complaints from expats about rising violent muggings in the area. Expat Stephen Fox wrote: 'Sad state of affairs. Fourth incident that I know of in this exact same area in the last three months.' He added that he witnessed a woman in a wheelchair in her 80s having her chain ripped off at 3pm in the same location.
Another British resident said: 'It's absolutely disgusting. All Ray's family and friends are devastated by what's happened. This isn't the first time it's happened. RIP Ray. Thinking about you Judy and sending hugs.'
Birthday celebration days before death
Ray is believed to have died just days after his 88th birthday, which he celebrated at the Big Ben pub in Los Cristianos. A friend said: 'I met that man two weeks ago in Big Ben. He was celebrating his birthday with his wife and having a great time. Such a lovely man. Can't believe this happened. Rest in peace.'
An active investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the octogenarian's death.
