A young cattle breeder has been fatally gored during a bull running festival in Jaen.
The victim, Santiago Barrero San Roman, aged around 30, was well known in the local bull-breeding community and was part of a family with deep roots in the industry.
The incident happened on Friday evening during one of the traditional street events linked to the San Marcos festivities in Baes de Segura, which draw thousands of people each year.
According to reports, the bull struck Barrero as he tried to take cover behind barriers in a packed section of Calle Palomares – known locally as ‘the street of hell’ due to its intensity during the runs.
Witnesses describe a devastating impact, with the animal’s horn piercing his torso at rib height.
He was rushed to a nearby medical centre where emergency teams attempted to stabilise him, but he died around an hour later from his injuries.
A life rooted in bull breeding
Barrero represented a new generation of breeders, according to Spanish reports.
He had recently launched his own project linked to the Torrestrella bloodline, starting with a small herd inherited from his family and aiming to grow the operation over time.
Friends and colleagues describe him as deeply connected to rural life, having grown up working alongside his father and grandfather, who founded the family’s cattle business.
He leaves behind a wife, a young child, and another baby on the way.
Community in shock
The Hermandad de San Marcos expressed its ‘deep sorrow’ in an official statement, offering condolences to the family and calling for unity during what it described as a moment of profound grief.
While the festival – held annually between April 22 and 25 – will continue in line with regulations, organisers confirmed that acts of respect will be observed, including a minute’s silence.
A festival marked by loss
The San Marcos celebrations, centred around the traditional toro ensogado (rope-led bull), are among the most deeply rooted in the province.
Alongside the fatal incident, several other injuries were reported during a day that saw dozens of bulls released into the streets.
