The dismembered body of a Colombian tourist was found on a popular beach in Spain last week — and the owner of a hotspot bar was arrested Tuesday morning in connection to the grisly murder, according to reports.
The mutilated body of the 42-year-old Colombian national — identified as Triana A. — was found by a startled local on Los Enanos Beach in San Andrés on April 27, prompting authorities to launch a massive search for her killer, the Canarian Weekly reported.
A Colombian woman whose body was found dismembered on a Gran Canaria beach has been identified as 41-year-old Triana Arias. Canarias7
The suspect seen being arrested. Canarias7
Officials investigate the scene of the murder. Canarias7Before her gruesome slaying, the victim — whom The Sun identified as Triana Arias — told a friend via text that she was going to a party, and was never heard from again.
Authorities believe the woman’s alleged warped executor first stabbed her in the neck and chopped at her legs before attempting to butcher her body while she was unconscious and bleeding to death.
Part of her neck was also hacked off.
Cops also suspect the deranged killer attempted to dispose of the tourist’s body in a container or bags before her corpse was abandoned on the beach, the outlet reported.
“Friend, I still can’t believe it,” a person close to the victim, who had a son, shared on social media, Canarias 7 reported.
“Your sudden departure leaves me speechless. Rest in peace, and much strength to your son and your mother. My sincerest condolences.”
The Guardia Civil collared David S., the owner of Arenales cafe-bar in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, at his Los Torres home, where authorities conducted an extensive investigation, the Canarian Weekly reported.
His bar was also cordoned off, with an armed guard stationed outside as law enforcement searched the business, according to The Sun.
Neighbors who “couldn’t believe” the news told Canarias 7 that the suspect’s bar was “always packed” and the owner, who ran the establishment for more than six years, had strong ties to the community.
Others noted that the establishment had changed in recent years.
“The place has changed its atmosphere,” one neighbor said, explaining that the business catered to late-night parties with the doors closed.
Police have not ruled out additional arrests as the investigation is ongoing.
The bar owner is expected to appear in court by Thursday.
