Evicted pensioner, 87, who sparked Spain housing protests dies
Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman whose eviction in Madrid became a symbol of Spain's housing crisis, has passed away. Her death follows nationwide protests and political turmoil that have forced Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to call a snap election.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the severe social and political consequences of Europe's ongoing housing affordability crisis.
Maricarmen Abascal is taken on a stretcher as she was evicted from her Madrid home, on September 23, 2026. DANI DUCH / AFP An 87-year-old Madrid woman whose eviction triggered nationwide protests over Spain's chronic housing crisis and a political debate that culminated in early elections died on Wednesday, October 7, a tenants' union said. "We are sorry to announce that Maricarmen passed away today," the Madrid Tenants' Union said in a statement about Maricarmen Abascal, adding that her cause marked "a turning point in the history of this country."
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Evicted Spanish pensioner at heart of Spain’s housing protests dies
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