The tragic accident occurred on September 10, when Antonio Morales, a retired firefighter, was cycling along La Vereda del Reino, a road that demarcates the boundary between Murcia and Alicante. Morales, who was just a day away from his 74th birthday, started his ride from his home in Puente Tocinos, Murcia. While cycling on the Alicante side of the road on his way back, he encountered a dangerous pothole that caused him to lose control of his bicycle and crash into a light pole that was protected by a metal beam. Witness accounts reveal severe impacts to his shoulder and chest.

The investigation into the circumstances of the accident has raised concerns over road safety along La Vereda del Reino, particularly due to the distinct differences in infrastructure on either side of the border. The Murcia side has a sidewalk, while the Alicante side does not, potentially contributing to the dangers faced by cyclists. As authorities delve into the specifics of the incident, questions about the responsibility for the road maintenance and safety measures along this divided road are also being scrutinized.

The case has garnered significant attention not only for the unfortunate loss of life but also for the broader implications it has on traffic safety legislation in Spain. Investigators are now considering whether the conditions that contributed to the accident could amount to reckless homicide, focusing on the accountability of relevant authorities to ensure adequate safety measures are in place for cyclists in such precarious locations. The outcome of this investigation may have lasting impacts on how road safety is managed, especially in areas where jurisdiction is split between different regions.