Woman, 87, dies after being carried from home of 70 years on stretcher during eviction in Spain

The death of an 87-year-old woman, María del Carmen Abascal, after being evicted from her Madrid home of 70 years has intensified Spain’s political crisis and nationwide protests over housing costs. Her eviction and subsequent death have become a symbol of the country’s housing affordability issues, contributing to widespread frustration. The incident has placed renewed pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government, especially as Spain heads into an early election on November 29.

• An 87-year-old woman, María del Carmen Abascal, died after being hospitalized following her eviction from a Madrid apartment she had lived in for 70 years.
• Her eviction and death have intensified nationwide protests in Spain concerning soaring housing costs and affordability.
• The incident occurred shortly after Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called for early elections due to his government’s failure to pass emergency housing measures.
• Images of Abascal being carried from her apartment on a stretcher sparked demonstrations, making her a symbol of the housing crisis.
• The real estate company intended to lease the apartment at a higher price, and later agreed to let Abascal return before her death.
• Her death led to further protests and national mourning, with political leaders offering condolences.