A 13-year-old British boy has been found dead in Portugal following a violent domestic incident that ended with a fatal house explosion.
Domestic Violence Call Ends in Tragedy
Portuguese police, the GNR, were called to a property in the town of Casais, near Tomar, at around midday on Tuesday, December 24, 2025. The call was in response to reports of a domestic violence incident.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered a horrific scene. The teenage victim, who held British nationality, had allegedly been attacked with a bladed weapon by his mother's former partner.
Barricade and Explosion
According to reports from the Portuguese outlet Diario de Noticias, the suspect barricaded himself inside the house after the alleged attack. He then turned on the gas, causing a major leak.
The property exploded shortly afterwards. The blast killed the suspect and injured a GNR police officer who was at the scene. The boy's mother was also found injured.
Police stated the mother 'was found by authorities showing signs of having been restrained and assaulted'. She was taken to the nearest hospital for treatment.
Victims and a Violent History
Officials confirmed that both the suspect and the 13-year-old boy had suffered multiple injuries from a sharp weapon. Despite detectable vital signs initially, the teenager was declared dead at the scene.
The investigation revealed a disturbing history. The alleged perpetrator had previously served a prison sentence for aggravated homicide. Furthermore, the family had been flagged by authorities following domestic violence cases registered in both 2022 and 2023.
Luis Freire, president of the local parish council, confirmed authorities were aware of previous domestic violence between the former couple.
An autopsy will be conducted to determine conclusively whether the boy died from the stabbing or the effects of the explosion.
Ongoing Response and Consular Support
The UK Foreign Office has issued a statement regarding the incident. A spokesperson said: 'We are in contact with the local authorities following an incident in Portugal, and stand ready to provide consular support.'
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community in Casais and is being treated as a major crime by Portuguese police.
