Bull attack in Picassent: man seriously injured in 'bous al carrer'

Bull attack in Picassent: man seriously injured in 'bous al carrer'

On the morning of July 13, 2025, a serious incident occurred during the traditional 'bous al carrer' celebrations in Picassent. A bull injured a 55-year-old man who tried to avoid the animal but made a mistake in his execution. The incident happened around 9 a.m. on a street near the town hall, where the injured man suffered significant injuries from “one or two” horn punctures and various bruises, including one to the head. Official sources confirm that the injury was not caused by a fall. He was immediately stabilized by the SAMU team and taken to hospital, however his current health status and prognosis for possible recovery are still unknown. This time of year is known for a high number of bous al carrer events.

There have been numerous similar incidents in the Comunitat Valenciana in recent weeks. Even before the dramatic incident in Picassent, another accident occurred last week in Dénia, where a man was injured in the leg. Last year there were nearly ten injuries related to these celebrations, highlighting a worrying trend.

Deadly record of the 'bous al carrer'

The statistics are alarming. In 2022, there were a total of seven deaths linked to 'bous al carrer' in the Comunitat Valenciana, all of which occurred within the last two months. This is an increase of three confirmed deaths compared to the summer of last year. Among the victims is a French woman killed by a bull in Beniarbeig. A 50-year-old man from Meliana and a 56-year-old man from Albacete, in Picassent, also lost their lives in July.

The dangerous nature of the events is obvious. There were four deaths and 204 injuries in 2021, while activities were severely restricted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A record seven deaths in festivities were recorded in 2015. Despite the danger, participation in the festivals is high, even though participation by children under 16 is prohibited by law.

Authorities actions and security concerns

Authorities face the challenge of ensuring security during these events. The Tauromak events were recently canceled in Náquera after two minors were involved in a dangerous event. The case of a 12-year-old boy who was seriously injured by a vaquilla in Puçol highlights the ongoing security problems.

It remains to be seen how authorities will respond to the rising number of injuries and deaths to ensure the safety of participants.