Tragedy in torrent: Bodies of missing boys recovered
Wednesday's reports from Torrent in the province of Valencia brought sad news — rescuers found the bodies of two boys who went missing on 29 October. Izan Matías, aged five, and Rubén Matías, aged three, were swept away from their father, Victor Matías, by the flood. The search, involving rescuers, neighbours, volunteers, and divers, had been ongoing for several days.
On the day of the flood, the children were with their father at home on the Curra estate when water suddenly entered their apartment, taking the whole family by surprise.
The boys' father, Victor Matías, was also swept away by the violent current, but he managed to grab onto a tree, which ultimately saved his life.
Search concluded: Boys' bodies found
After several days of intensive searching, the bodies of Rubén and Izan were found in different locations, a few kilometres from Torrent. Many resources were involved in the search, with recent efforts concentrating mainly on the Pollo River, about 6 kilometres from the children's family home.
The boys' family, who came to formally identify the bodies, is shaken by the tragedy, and the authorities in Torrent have provided them with psychological support.
My little angels, we finally found you. Two stars shine brighter in the sky — wrote a family friend, David Garcia, on social media.
Social support and solidarity
The story of Rubén and Izan shook the residents of Valencia, as well as the whole of Spain. Support flowed from many directions, as emphasised by the boys' uncle, Iván.
I am immensely grateful for all the support we have received — he said in an interview with the BBC.
The boys' aunt, Barbara Sastre, confirmed that the search has ended and for the family, it is the closure of a dramatic chapter, although a huge void remains.
Still dangerous in Spain: Fears of sudden floods
Since 29 October 2024, heavy rains and sudden floods have occurred in many regions of Spain. The regions of Valencia, the eastern part of the Castilla-La Mancha region, and Andalusia have been in the most difficult situation.
Despite the passage of time, Spaniards still fear sudden floods. Due to weather forecasts predicting heavy rainfall, thousands of people have been evacuated in Málaga. There are also disruptions in flights.
Streets turn into raging torrents. Services are appealing for caution — reports say.
