An Irish tourist who died yesterday in the middle of a street in Magaluf “may have been run over” before collapsing, according to reports.
In an initial pre-mortem examination, Michael Grant, 45, a father of four from Waterford, was found to have leg injuries consistent with being hit by a car, as well as mysterious bite marks on his arm and shoulder.
The physiotherapist also had a deep wound with a glass stuck inside, after being found unconscious near the resort’s famous Punta Bellena area, which is packed with late-night bars, nightclubs and erotic dancing venues, at around 4.30am on Monday.
Investigators are now awaiting the results of a full autopsy due later today to see whether it confirms initial suspicions that the holidaymaker suffered a heart attack after a heavy day of partying or points to his shock death being linked to something more sinister.
Mr Grant, who was on holiday with his wife Leanne and at least two of their four children and other family from Ireland, was staying at the Sol Katmandu Park and Resort before his tragic death.
Michael Grant (pictured), 45, tragically collapsed and died in the middle of the road in Magaluf in the early hours of Monday morning.
Mr Grant, a physiotherapist from Waterford, was found unconscious near Magaluf’s famous Punta Bellena area, packed with late-night bars, clubs and lap dancing venues, at around 4.30am. Pictured: Neighbours watch police work at the scene today
It has emerged that Mr Grant was a popular family man from Ireland who had gone missing after a night of partying. Pictured: A view of the street where the man was found this morning
He had reportedly taken a wrong turn and become separated from other members of his group after spending the afternoon drinking by his hotel pool before heading out to party.
A source close to the ongoing investigation said: ‘The initial suggestion was that this man’s death may have been linked to what he had consumed before he died.
‘But a preliminary examination of his body before the full autopsy yielded some surprises and gave investigators cause for concern.
‘Mr Grant’s leg injuries are consistent with those caused by a car hitting him.
‘At first glance they do not appear to be life-threatening, but they have opened up the possibility that his death may not have been an accident.
“Investigators do not know at this time if the bite marks are related.”
The source added that Grant’s friends and loved ones, including his wife, will be questioned as part of the investigation to help “build a detailed picture of the final hours of his life.”
The group including the dead man were staying at the four-star Sol Katmandu Park and Resort hotel in Magaluf, which is described online as a popular hotel for families with young children.
A security guard working in the main area alerted local police yesterday, telling them he had seen the man collapse and fall to the ground.
Attempts to revive him at the scene were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
The dead man was identified by the hotel bracelet he was wearing, but also by the names of his wife and children tattooed on his back.
A spokesman for Calvià Town Hall, which is responsible for the Magaluf area, had said earlier that day that the dead man was British before it was confirmed that he was travelling with an Irish passport.
A strip of paper appearing to contain instructions for a defibrillator is seen on the street where Mr Grant was found unconscious this morning.
The group was staying at the Sol Katmandu Park and Resort (pictured), which is popular with families with young children.
A 45-year-old man died this morning on the street in the Magaluf area.
‘The incident occurred at around 4.30 in the morning. The deceased was staying at a hotel in the area.’
He added: ‘An employee of a local establishment alerted the police, saying that a man was unwell and was stumbling in the street.
‘The local police arrived and performed CPR, but were unable to revive him. The Civil Guard has taken over the investigation to determine the cause of death.’
A source from the Civil Guard said early yesterday morning: “This death does not appear to be related to any crime but the autopsy will be key to determining what happens next.”
A hotel worker also added: “Mr Grant’s family and friends were crying all morning” after hearing the news of his unexpected death.
Tourists have expressed shock at Mr Grant’s sudden death.
Friends Brenda and Shirley from Wolverhampton described his death as a tragedy.
Brenda, 65, told the MailOnline: “It’s horrible that he dropped dead in the street. Forty-five is not an old age, how could this have happened?”
Shirley added: “People drink on holiday, but they don’t expect it.”
Mr Grant was head coach of the children’s team at St Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club.
Mr Grant was on holiday in Magaluf with his wife Leanne and their four children and other family from Ireland when the tragedy occurred. Pictured: the road where he was found
In a tribute statement posted on their Facebook page, it said: ‘It is with great sadness that we inform you of the sudden passing of our much-loved club member and Head Children’s Coach, Michael Grant.
‘As many of you know, Michael was more than just a manager to us – he was a dear friend and as a club and as his family we need time to process this devastating loss.
‘Michael was an integral part of our community and his absence will be deeply felt. He was not just a coach, but a mentor and friend to all the children and adults at St Joseph’s.
‘More recently, her dedication, passion and love for children was evident in everything she did. She cherished each and every one of them and I’m sure everyone will agree that her impact was immeasurable.
‘We extend our sincere condolences to Michael’s family – his wife Leanne, his children Kayleigh, Niamh, Shay and Sophia, his parents Sam and Marie, his brothers, sisters and extended family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time.
‘We also want to acknowledge the grief and shock that our own children and members are experiencing. Michael was an important part of their lives and his loss is deeply personal to each of us.
In the coming days, we will share more information about plans to honor Michael’s memory. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this difficult time.
“Michael, sleep well, dear friend. We will miss you forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club.”
Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: “The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance. As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case.”
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