Car Plows Into Fans Outside Espanyol-Barcelona Match, 13 Injured

The incident occurred during the heated derby, prompting immediate medical response and resulting in the arrest of the driver.

Thirteen people were injured when a car crashed into a group of fans outside the derby match between Espanyol and Barcelona, held on Thursday. The game, which saw Barcelona clinch the La Liga title with a 2-0 win, was temporarily delayed as officials consulted with local police regarding the situation.

Reports from police in Barcelona confirmed that four individuals were transported to the hospital, although none were reported to be in serious condition. Authorities assured the public via social media that there was no ongoing threat to the crowd inside the stadium.

The driver of the vehicle was apprehended on charges of dangerous driving and causing injuries. Eyewitness videos shared on social media captured the chaotic moments leading up to the crash, showing the car wedged between rubbish bins outside the stadium before it accelerated into the assembly of fans.

Local officials stated the collision occurred as supporters of Espanyol congregated to greet their team's coach. A fleet of ten ambulances was deployed to the scene following the incident. The most significant injury reported was a broken leg among the injured fans.

"It was an accident; some people were hurt, but the injuries are not severe. There are no major incidents to report," declared Salvador Illa, the president of the Government of Catalonia, while speaking to Spanish TV channel Movistar Plus during the match.

The incident highlights the importance of safety and crowd control measures at major sporting events, as the local public eagerly supports their teams in this contentious rivalry.