Arena bomb survivor escapes Barcelona terror attack
13 DEAD AFTER VAN IS DRIVEN INTO CROWD IN SPAIN
A SURVIVOR of the Manchester Arena attack has described the horror of being caught up in the terror attack in Barcelona.
Chris Pawley, who lives in Manchester city centre, was just yards away from tourist hub Las Ramblas when a van ploughed into pedestrians, killing 13.
He reached the area just after yesterday’s attack, which also left more than 100 people injured. Islamic State have claimed responsibility for the outrage.
Chris, 30, was enjoying a trip to the Spanish city with partner Corey Lorde for a festival when the terrorist struck.
Speaking from Barcelona, he told the M.E.N.: “We were in the area after the incident. We have just come back to the hotel. We were caught up in the arena attack – can’t believe it. There were police everywhere and ambulances, the shops started putting the shutters down.”
Chris, who immediately left the area, said tourists were being advised by hotels to stay in their rooms. He had previously been in the audience during the fateful May 22 concert by American singer Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena but left the venue and was crossing the footbridge into Manchester Victoria station seconds before the bomb detonated.
He said: “We were so, so lucky. We came out into the area where the bomb exploded. Walked past Martyn Hett (who died in the bomb blast) as we were sat near him.
“We got through the second set of doors and as we were crossing the bridge to go down the steps, it went off behind us - so literally seconds. We were so lucky we managed to escape unhurt.”
Police have arrested two men after the white Fiat van tore through the tourist district, which was packed with shoppers and holidaymakers. But neither are thought to be the driver.
The vehicle careered into terrified pedestrians in the busy tree-lined promenade, one of the most popular parts of the city.
Las Ramblas, a street which runs through the centre of Barcelona, is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations due to its lively market stalls, bars and restaurants.
Local media said police have arrested a man named Driss Oukabir, whose documents were allegedly used to rent the van involved in the attack. Reports say he has denied involvement and claims his documents had been stolen. The passport of a Spanish citizen, of Moroccan origin, was found at the scene.
Prime Minister Theresa May said the UK “stands with Spain against terror” following the deadly attack. Mrs May said: “My thoughts are with the victims of today’s terrible attack in Barcelona and the emergency services responding to this ongoing incident.”
Meanwhile, US president Donald Trump wrote on Twitter: “The United States condemns the terror attack in Barcelona, Spain, and will do whatever is necessary to help. Be tough & strong, we love you!”
Lights on the Eiffel Tower were last night switched off in tribute to those who were killed.