Spanish police launch criminal investigation into death of Tenerife forward

Spanish police have launched a criminal investigation into the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel after the 30-year-old collapsed during a second division clash with FC Andorra.

The incident occurred in added time when De Miguel dived in an attempt to control a long diagonal ball with goalkeeper Jesus Owono charging out of his penalty box.

Owono appeared to hit De Miguel in the chest with his raised knee, leaving the Tenerife star lying motionless on the pitch. Medics rushed onto the pitch.

The goalkeeper was shown a straight red card by the referee, however, he was later forced to terminate the match after players from both teams found it difficult to come to terms with what had happened.

De Miguel was stretchered off and taken to hospital. He was said to have fallen into cardiac arrest while being transported to hospital but emergency services were able to get his heartbeat going.

Tenerife initially said the player was in a stable but serious condition before updating supporters in the early hours of Tuesday to say his neurological condition had deteriorated. They later confirmed De Miguel passed away in hospital around 8am on Tuesday. The news shocked Tenerife, Andorra and clubs throughout Spain and Europe.

Spanish National Police have started proceedings for possible involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors will investigate.

Authorities have made clear that an investigation will be launched if any death is not deemed to be natural. This does not necessarily mean Owono will be found guilty of any crime.

"But it will be very difficult to see it go to criminal court due to the sporting nature of the incident," said Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui, chief prosecutor for Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

An investigation will include a report from the referee and disciplinary committee from the Spanish Football Federation. Owono could face sanctions from a sporting standpoint but there has been no indication he intentionally tried to hurt De Miguel.

Tenerife have said they are "devastated" by the passing of their player and asked for respect to be given to his family. Tributes were paid by Barcelona, Real Madrid and other clubs. Several games have been postponed by football authorities.