87-Year-Old Spanish Woman Whose Eviction Sparked National Protests Has Died

Spain is mourning the loss of María del Carmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman whose eviction from her Madrid apartment ignited widespread protests across the nation. Her death was confirmed on October 7, following a turbulent few weeks marked by her removal from the home she had occupied for 71 years.

Abascal’s plight began in 2018 when her apartment was acquired by an investment fund known as Urbagestión. Following this acquisition, her rent skyrocketed from €500 to €2,650 a month, surpassing her pension of €1,350. Although negotiations later reduced the rent to €1,650, this amount still left Abascal struggling to afford her housing costs. During the ensuing eight years, she fought fiercely against her eviction, which became emblematic of Spain’s growing affordable housing crisis.

After an arduous battle that included appeals to the Supreme Court, which ruled against her in March 2026, Abascal received notice requiring her to vacate her home. On September 23, 2026, authorities forcibly evicted her, carrying her out on a stretcher. This distressing scene drew a large crowd of supporters who vocally protested the authorities’ actions, chanting phrases such as “Maricarmen, you’re not alone!” and “Murderers!”

Witnesses reported that nearly 10,000 people turned out on the evening of her eviction, expressing their anger and dismay. In the days that followed, countrywide demonstrations swelled, with estimates suggesting that around 950,000 individuals took part in protests against the ongoing housing crisis in Spain.

As the situation developed, her attorney Beatriz Duro announced on September 28 that a new agreement had been reached with Urbagestión. This deal was said to allow Abascal to return to her home at a rent based on 30% of her income, similar to her original fee, over an eight-year period. However, tragically, this resolution came too late for Abascal, who died without having the chance to return to her beloved home.

The Madrid Tenants’ Union expressed deep sorrow at her passing, stating that her experience marked a significant turning point in Spain’s history regarding housing rights. They described the lead-up to her death as an “absolutely avoidable situation after a torturing process.” As news of her demise broke, protests resumed, rallying at Puerta del Sol, a square in Madrid known for hosting civic demonstrations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez paid tribute to Abascal via social media, stating, “All my love to Maricarmen’s family and loved ones. A hug to everyone today who feels this loss as our own. Rest in peace.” This heartfelt sentiment underscored the profound impact Abascal’s struggle had on the national consciousness regarding housing rights.

The circumstances surrounding Abascal’s eviction have highlighted the broader issues of housing insecurity and affordability that affect many Spaniards. As Spain grapples with rising living costs, her story has galvanised public sentiment and called for urgent reforms to protect vulnerable tenants from similar fates.

Abascal’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of financial transactions in the housing market, prompting calls for a national reevaluation of policies that govern tenant rights and housing affordability. As Spain moves forward, many will undoubtedly remember María del Carmen Abascal not only as a victim of an unjust system but also as a symbol of resilience in the fight for housing justice.