Serious crash on the MA-19 near Santanyí: Police investigate possible suicide attempt

A 70-year-old German man collided head-on with a truck on the MA-19. Notes in the car and a missing-person report filed moments earlier lead police to investigate a possible suicide attempt.

Serious crash near Santanyí: Police investigate circumstances

Thursday morning, just after 9:10 a.m., a stretch of the MA-19 became a crash scene that will stay in many people's memories here for a long time. At kilometer 42, a Land Rover collided frontally with a truck. The driver of the SUV, a 70-year-old German national, was seriously injured and airlifted to Son Espases Hospital. The truck driver also went to the Juaneda hospital.

Clues in the vehicle, missing-person report filed moments earlier

What the Guardia Civil is focusing on now: In the car, officers found handwritten notes that could indicate an intent. Also, just minutes before the accident there was already a missing-person report for the man; patrols searched the area—and then the collision occurred. The traffic investigators have handed the file to the Criminal Police, which will clarify the exact sequence of events and possible motives.

Rescue under difficult conditions

Rescue teams fought their way through a scene not often seen: Firefighters from Felanitx and Llucmajor used hydraulic rescue tools to free the truck driver. On site were also doctors from PAC Santanyí, two ambulances, and units of SAMU 061. The road brigade of the Consell subsequently cleared the roadway. One detail that makes many people pause: The man in the Land Rover was not wearing a seat belt.

There are still many unanswered questions. Was it a planned act? An error? The investigators are working meticulously-- and neighbors speak softly as the town tries to regain its routine.

Help and contacts

If you are in a crisis yourself or know someone who is at risk: There are help services available around the clock. In Mallorca you can reach the anonymous emergency number 024. Other confidential consultations: 112 (general emergency), 971 461 112 (Balearic pastoral care), 900 925 555 (suicide prevention) and 900 202 010 (help for minors). For German-speaking callers, the German pastoral care hotline is reachable at 0049 800 1110 111.

Later I stood with an espresso at a bar in Santanyí, saw the emergency vehicles, heard the distant beeping of the devices and realized: Such days change the neighborhood. Please look out for one another, take signs seriously, and do not hesitate to call for help -- early.

The investigations continue; as soon as authorities release new information, we will report.