A Cuban woman, a mother of three, was tragically killed by her partner in Langreo, located in the Principality of Asturias, Spain, last Friday, January 31st. This horrific incident, which has shaken the community, took place around 11:00 p.m. when 72-year-old Francisco F. fatally stabbed his partner, Karilenia, a 40-year-old Cuban woman.
The devastating event unfolded on Poeta Mánfer de la Llera Street in Sama, Langreo. Witnesses reported that after an argument at their home, Karilenia fled to the street seeking help, pursued by Francisco, who then attacked her with a knife, inflicting fatal wounds. Despite emergency responders' best efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The alleged attacker has been taken into police custody, awaiting judicial proceedings.
Karilenia's children, from a previous marriage, were with their father at the time of the tragedy. According to Adriana Lastra, the Government's delegate in Asturias, and Miguel Ángel Ramos, the regional head of National Police Operations, Karilenia had been in a "very brief" romantic relationship with the perpetrator, and there were no prior reports of abuse.
Asturian President Adrián Barbón expressed his deep sorrow and anger, stating, "The rage, grief, and indignation over this gender-based murder have left my heart utterly shattered." In his statement, he condemned gender violence as "a form of terrorism that some shamefully deny exists."
Barbón further added, "We, both women and men, who stand against this murder and its perpetrator, who believe that machismo kills, demand a more just society founded on equality." In solidarity, the Langreo City Council, the Principality of Asturias, and the Government Delegation issued a joint statement condemning the murder and offering their "strongest rejection," along with support for the victim's loved ones.
The City Council also organized a public demonstration in front of the municipal building to denounce this new femicide and to show solidarity with the victim's family. This marks the first recorded case of gender violence in Spain for 2025, following the murder of 48 women in 2024.
Understanding Gender-based Violence in Spain
What led to the murder of the Cuban woman in Langreo?
The murder occurred following a domestic argument, where the victim, Karilenia, was fatally attacked by her partner Francisco F. on the street after she sought help.
How has the Asturian government responded to this incident?
The Asturian government, along with local authorities, have condemned the murder, organized public demonstrations, and expressed their commitment to fighting gender-based violence.
What is the significance of this case in the context of gender violence in Spain?
This case is significant as it marks the first instance of gender violence in Spain in 2025, highlighting the ongoing issue following the murder of 48 women in 2024.