Three minors die after drowning incident at Tarragona's Arrabassada beach

On the afternoon of 20 June 2026, six youths were swimming near the Cova del Gos area of the Arrabassada beach in Tarragona, Catalonia, when strong currents caused three of them to be swept out to sea. The flag flying was yellow, indicating that swimming was allowed but caution was required.

Rescue teams – including the Sistema d’Emergències Mèdiques, Red Cross, maritime rescue, fire services and police – deployed ambulances, a medical helicopter and boats. Three teenagers were pulled from the water: a 12‑year‑old who died on scene, and two 13‑year‑olds who were taken to Hospital Joan XXIII in critical condition. One of the 13‑year‑olds later died, raising the death toll to three.

The Tarragona city council declared three days of official mourning, flew flags at half‑mast and scheduled a minute of silence. The local football club CD La Floresta held a tribute ceremony attended by about 150 people. Catalonia’s President Salvador Illa expressed “deep shock” and said, “no hay palabras en estos momentos de dolor.” Mayor Rubén Viñuales warned that “the sea is dangerous, do not take unnecessary risks.” An investigation by the Mossos d’Esquadra has been opened.