🚨 BREAKING: Distracted Driver Runs Red Light in Madrid — Victim Identified as Father of Real Madrid Star Arda Güler
Madrid, Spain — June 20, 2025 — A family outing in central Madrid took a horrific turn this morning when a driver allegedly using his phone while ignoring a red light plowed into a group of pedestrians at the intersection of Gran Vía and Plaza de España.
Among the victims was a 59-year-old man who was walking hand-in-hand with his wife and grandson. When paramedics arrived at the chaotic scene, they quickly realized this wasn’t just another traffic tragedy — the man struck was Kemal Güler, the father of Real Madrid star Arda Güler.
📱 Driver Reportedly on Phone at Time of Crash
According to witnesses, the driver — identified only as a man in his early 30s — was visibly distracted, allegedly texting or scrolling through his phone moments before ignoring the red light and accelerating through the crowded pedestrian crossing.
“He didn’t even glance up. The light had been red for at least three seconds. He didn’t brake — just slammed straight through,” said Marta Jiménez, a café worker who witnessed the crash.
“People were screaming. It was absolute chaos.”
Local police confirmed that mobile phone use while driving is being investigated as the primary cause of the incident. The driver was detained on the spot and remains in custody.
🏥 Kemal Güler in Critical Condition at Hospital La Paz
Kemal Güler sustained multiple injuries, including:
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Severe head trauma
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A fractured femur and pelvis
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Broken ribs and internal bleeding
Doctors at Hospital Universitario La Paz have stated his condition is critical but stable following emergency surgery. He remains under intensive observation.
⚽ Arda Güler Leaves Training to Be With His Father
Arda Güler, 20, had been training with the Real Madrid squad at Valdebebas ahead of pre-season friendlies when he was informed of the accident. He immediately left the session and arrived at the hospital accompanied by club staff and close family members.
“Arda was visibly shaken. He rushed inside without speaking to anyone. You could tell this wasn’t just a player reacting — it was a son terrified for his father,” said a source close to the club.
🌍 Social Media Erupts: #PrayForKemal and #JusticeForGüler Trend Across Spain
As news spread of the victim’s identity, fans, teammates, and celebrities flooded social media with messages of support for the young midfielder and his family.
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Vinícius Jr.: “We’re with you, hermano. Strength to you and your family.”
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Toni Kroos: “Praying for a full recovery. Stay strong, Arda.”
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Spanish Football Federation: “We send our heartfelt support to Arda Güler and his family in this difficult time.”
The hashtags #PrayForKemal and #JusticeForGüler began trending within an hour, with many calling for harsher penalties for distracted driving in Spain.
“This is no longer a minor offense. If you use your phone and hit someone, it should be treated like drunk driving,” wrote @MadridistaHeart on X.
⚖️ Legal Action Pending — Calls Grow for Reform
Madrid authorities have confirmed that the driver is facing potential charges of:
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Reckless endangerment
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Negligent bodily harm
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Violation of traffic safety laws
A public petition demanding harsher punishments for distracted driving in Spain has already gathered over 250,000 signatures in less than 24 hours.
🏟️ Real Madrid Issues Official Statement
Real Madrid C.F. released a short but heartfelt message on social media:
“Our thoughts and full support are with Arda Güler and his family following today’s tragic incident. The club is providing all necessary assistance and asks for privacy during this time.”
Club president Florentino Pérez has reportedly visited the hospital privately and offered to cover any and all medical expenses related to Mr. Güler’s treatment and recovery.
🕊️ “My Father Is a Fighter,” Arda Says in Emotional Post
Late in the evening, Arda Güler broke his silence with an emotional post on Instagram:
“Today was the worst day of my life. But I believe in my father’s strength. He’s a fighter — just like he taught me to be. Thank you for the love. Please keep praying.”