A loud explosion rang out in the sky of Barcelona, leaving the entire city shocked and frightened. A helicopter flying in the air suddenly plunged, crashed into buildings and broke into pieces. Debris was scattered across the streets, shaking the crowded La Rambla area. According to the initial report from Barcelona Police, the helicopter carrying Karim Benzema had an accident while en route from El Prat airport to the city center.
The accident happened at 5:23 pm. While the helicopter was flying over the Eixample area, the pilot reported that one of the engines was malfunctioning. In the last message sent to the control center shortly before the incident, the pilot said: “The engine is broken, we will try to make an emergency landing.” However, the helicopter did not have time to perform any landing maneuvers and fell freely.
Witnesses in the area said they saw a plume of black smoke in the sky just before the helicopter crashed. “Everything happened so fast. First the engine died, then there was a loud bang, and in a split second we saw a fireball in the air,” said a witness named Jorge Martínez, who was walking down the street in panic.
A video posted on social media showed the terrifying scene of the helicopter breaking into pieces, falling on the roofs of buildings, and shattering windows. “I saw a piece of debris fall right in front of me, and I just managed to get out before everything was engulfed in smoke,” another witness shared.
Firefighters and rescue teams immediately arrived at the scene. But the severity of the accident made rescue work extremely difficult. “There are pieces of the helicopter scattered across the streets, and small fires are burning in several areas,” said a spokesman for the Barcelona Fire Department. “We have had to block off several areas to control the situation and ensure the safety of the people.”
When rescuers reached the main area, they discovered a body part in the wreckage. Although doctors at the scene tried to resuscitate the victim, they were unable to save him. At 5:56 p.m., a paramedic confirmed his death. Less than 30 minutes later, international media began reporting Karim Benzema’s death.
Barcelona police immediately confirmed that there were at least three people on board the helicopter, including Karim Benzema, the pilot, and another member of the crew. They were unable to save anyone, and all three died at the scene. A rescue team spokesman said: “The accident was so severe that there was nothing more we could do. The body was burned and could not be identified immediately.”
On social media, news of Benzema’s death quickly spread, leaving millions of football fans stunned. Hashtags like #PrayForBenzema and #GoodbyeKarim began to flood in, dominating social media platforms within minutes. Teams, teammates and famous players all sent their condolences. Lionel Messi, Benzema’s colleague for many years, wrote: “It is unbelievable that we have lost a teammate, a great friend. He will always be in our hearts.”
At the Nou Camp stadium, where Benzema played some unforgettable matches, thousands of fans gathered to pay their respects. They held lanterns and flowers, and lit candles in front of the legend’s statue. One fan said: “He was the pride of football. Losing him is a huge shock.”
While investigations are underway, authorities have not made any official announcement on the cause of the crash. Debris from the helicopter is still being collected and will be analyzed to determine exactly what caused the engine failure. A Swiss air investigation team has also been sent to Barcelona to assist in the investigation.
At the hospital where the bodies were taken, Benzema’s family and friends were in a state of shock. His wife, Cora Gauthier, was in tears as she arrived to see doctors. A source close to her said: “Cora cannot believe that her man has gone so suddenly. It is all too painful to accept.”
At 8:00 pm, French President Emmanuel Macron sent his official condolences: “Karim Benzema was not only a great player on the pitch but also a pride of the nation. We have lost a legend.” Spanish officials also expressed their condolences: “Spanish football and the world of football in general have lost a shining star.”
On the streets of Barcelona, the light from lanterns and candles reflected on the ground, blending into the quiet atmosphere. People lined up to pay their respects to him, without saying a word. Only the sound of waves gently lapping on the beach, like a regretful farewell.
Karim Benzema, who brought fans countless beautiful moments in his career, has now passed away. But in the hearts of fans, he will live forever.
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