A 19-year-old man has been shot and killed by police outside Gran Canaria Airport after going on a violent rampage that saw him attempt to stab a taxi driver and threaten passengers inside the terminal with a knife.
The incident unfolded at around 4:45pm yesterday afternoon, Saturday, with the man, believed to be from Gambia, running through Terminal 2 "out of control" and armed with a knife, according to eyewitnesses.
He reportedly first targeted a taxi driver, threatening him with the blade, before entering the terminal building, where he is said to have tried to attack another person. That individual escaped uninjured after falling to the ground while fleeing.
The suspect then exited the terminal and was confronted by officers near a bus stop on the airport’s internal road. In a statement, the National Police said the man "lunged at officers with the weapon," prompting them to open fire.
At least five officers were involved in the operation. According to reports, one officer stumbled and fell, and as the suspect moved to attack him, others opened fire to protect their colleague.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with several shots – believed to be eight or nine – ringing out across the busy area. Travellers waiting for buses were seen running for cover. Video footage posted online captured the moment officers shouted for people to take shelter, saying: “Get inside, please!”
The suspect was declared dead at the scene, his body left near the bus stop while police secured the area. Forensic teams, including members of the Homicide Unit and Scientific Police, carried out an investigation alongside a local judge and forensic examiner. The body was not removed until after 8:00pm.
Local police from Telde assisted with road closures, while public transport was diverted to minimise disruption.
Authorities have not confirmed a motive, but the police continue to investigate. Officers say the shooting followed protocol and was carried out in self-defence.
The dramatic scenes have sparked concern among passengers and staff at one of Spain’s busiest airports, with questions now being asked about how the man was able to enter the terminal armed and undetected.
