A devastating incident unfolded in Getafe, a town south of Madrid, when Marisa, a 61-year-old Cuban woman, was tragically murdered by her partner, a 63-year-old Spanish man named Florindo. According to Spanish media, after committing the heinous act, Florindo attempted to take his own life.
The horrifying event came to light when neighbors, alarmed by Marisa's desperate cries for help, contacted the police. Witnesses reported hearing her scream, "Help, help, they want to kill me!" Official reports reveal that Florindo dragged Marisa to a shed in their shared backyard and stabbed her three times in the chest. Despite the prompt arrival of emergency services, they were unable to save her life.
Police Intervention and Arrest
Officers from the National Police had to rappel down from a neighboring terrace to reach the scene where Florindo had barricaded himself, clutching a knife. When he refused to surrender, law enforcement used a taser to subdue and arrest him. He is currently hospitalized in serious condition at Madrid's Hospital 12 de Octubre.
A Tragic Pattern of Violence
Relatives disclosed that Marisa and Florindo had been in a relationship for over two decades, with no prior reports of domestic violence. However, those close to the couple noted that Florindo suffered from depression and had previously attempted suicide. Spain’s Delegation Against Gender Violence confirmed this incident as another tragic case of gender-based violence, raising the 2025 count to 16 women killed by their partners or ex-partners. Since 2003, the official records show 1,310 such deaths.
Marisa’s daughter and brother are in a state of shock, and the local community is grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. One distraught neighbor recounted, "She was screaming that they wanted to kill her, and then suddenly, there was silence."
Previous Similar Incidents
This brutal murder comes just months after the first domestic violence case of the year in Spain, which also involved a Cuban victim. In January, Karilenia, a mother of three, was similarly killed by her partner in Langreo, Asturias. As with Marisa, no prior complaints had been filed, and the attack involved a knife following a domestic argument.
Resources for Victims
The Spanish authorities emphasize that victims of gender-based violence can seek help through the free and confidential helpline 016, available 24/7 in 52 languages. Additionally, support can be accessed via email at 016-online@igualdad.gob.es, by WhatsApp at 600 000 016, or through the ANAR Foundation for minors at 900 20 20 10.
Understanding Gender Violence in Spain
What is the significance of the 016 helpline?
The 016 helpline offers free, confidential support and advice to victims of gender violence around the clock in multiple languages, making it a crucial resource for those in need.
How many women have been victims of gender violence in Spain in 2025?
As of 2025, 16 women have been tragically killed by their partners or ex-partners in Spain, highlighting a persistent issue of gender-based violence.
What resources are available for minors experiencing domestic violence?
Minors facing domestic violence can reach out to the ANAR Foundation by calling 900 20 20 10 for specialized support and assistance.