Maricarmen Abascal, the 87-year-old woman whose eviction helped ignite a nationwide wave of housing protests, has died in hospital.

She had remained under care since September 23, when she was removed from her home on a stretcher in Madrid.

Her eviction provoked widespread anger and became a symbol of Spain’s deepening housing crisis, triggering protests, public demonstrations and encampments in cities nationwide.

Following mounting pressure, property management company Urbagestion reached an agreement with Maricarmen’s representatives that would have allowed her to return to the property once she left hospital.

However, the Madrid Tenants’ Union said the resolution had arrived ‘too late’ after what it described as an avoidable and ‘torturous’ process.

The union announced her death on Wednesday night and promised to continue campaigning in her memory.

It said the response to her eviction marked a turning point in Spain’s housing movement, pointing to mass demonstrations, protest camps and the planned general strike over access to affordable homes.

Maricarmen had repeatedly encouraged campaigners to continue defending their rights, telling them: ‘Fight, keep fighting for what is yours.’

Full statement from the Madrid Tenants’ Union

We are saddened to announce that Maricarmen died today.

As you all know, she was evicted on September 23 and had remained in hospital ever since. Although a historic agreement was reached that would have allowed her to return to her home, that solution came too late. This was an entirely avoidable situation following a torturous process.

The events triggered by the injustice of her eviction undoubtedly represent a before and after in the history of this country: mass demonstrations, protest camps in public squares, a snap election and the calling of a general strike.

The housing debate is now at the centre of public life, but the cost of reaching this point has been far too high.

Following her passing, we are left with Maricarmen’s example of resistance and the legacy she has created.

Above all, we will honour what she always asked of us: “Fight, keep fighting for what is yours.”

Your family, your lawyer and your union will continue defending the right to housing and fighting against speculators with the strength and courage you taught us.

We will continue fighting for you and for everyone, just as you always wanted.