Forensic report cites high-energy chest trauma in death of Tenerife forward

Jesús de Miguel, the forward for Club Deportivo Tenerife, died from a high-energy closed chest trauma according to a final medical verdict released on Tuesday. The forensic report identified the specific injury that ended the life of the Madrid-born attacker following a match against FC Andorra.

The collision occurred when de Miguel struck Andorra goalkeeper Owono Ngua at high speed. The direct impact to the chest disrupted the heart's electrical system, causing an immediate halt in oxygenated blood flow to the brain. This sudden failure triggered a cardiopulmonary arrest on the field.

Paramedics responded quickly and restored de Miguel's pulse during transport to the hospital. However, the internal damage sustained in the impact continued to affect his condition. His neurological status deteriorated critically during the night, leading to his official death at 8:00 a.m.

National Police officers opened a judicial investigation to determine the full scope of the incident. Investigators will examine hospital records and broadcast footage to assess whether the collision was an incidental play or if it involved specific responsibilities.

Direct chest impacts that lead to death are rare in professional leagues, though historical precedents exist. Ukrainian goalkeeper Serhiy Perkhun died in 2001 after a head collision. Indonesian goalkeeper Choirul Huda died in 2017 following a cardiac arrest after a collision in his penalty area.

The Tenerife fans have expressed strong reactions to the event. Supporters have described the goalkeeper as a killer in their comments following the tragedy. Almería, a club partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo, announced it would donate match ticket revenue to de Miguel's family.

The medical determination provides the basis for the ongoing police inquiry. The focus remains on reviewing the physical evidence and video documentation to clarify the sequence of events on the pitch.