A British woman was killed Tuesday evening in what authorities are treating as a homicide at a hotel in Albufeira, Portugal. The victim, whose name has not been released, was reportedly stabbed multiple times with scissors by the father of her child.
The incident occurred just before 7 p.m. at the family-friendly Alfagar Alto Da Colina aparthotel. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Her four-year-old son, who reportedly witnessed the beginning of the altercation, was hospitalized overnight with a leg injury. It is not yet clear how the child sustained his injury.
Hotel staff and guests reportedly rushed to assist the injured child as the mother lay dying. Forensic experts were observed documenting the scene, which included visible bloodstains in the hotel room and a corridor.
The suspect, identified as the child's father and a British national matching the victim's age of 34, was arrested at the hotel. He is expected to appear before a judge at Portimao Court within 48 hours, where he will likely be remanded in custody as the investigation proceeds.
The couple's child, who reportedly celebrated his fourth birthday on Wednesday, remains at Faro Hospital. Relatives have been notified and are believed to be traveling to the Algarve region. A Family and Juvenile Court will determine the boy's future care arrangements.
Portuguese police have confirmed both the victim and the suspect are British nationals but have not specified their hometowns. The GNR and Policia Judiciaria are leading the investigation, with no formal statements released by either agency.
The Alfagar Alto Da Colina resort is described as an aparthotel offering amenities for families and couples, including swimming pools, sports facilities, and proximity to the beach. The resort is located in Albufeira, a popular tourist destination on Portugal's Algarve coast.