Jota's Death: Local Authorities Blame Tyre Blow-Out for High-Speed Tragedy
Portuguese Forward and His Brother André Killed After Lamborghini Veers Off A-52 Motorway and Bursts Into Flames
Edem Latsu Nukafu 
Portuguese international and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically died in a fatal car accident in Spain, along with his brother André Jota, authorities have confirmed. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, on the A-52 motorway near the town of Palacios de Sanabria.
According to reports by BBC Sport and confirmed by local Spanish police, the Lamborghini the brothers were travelling in left the road while overtaking another vehicle and caught fire after what authorities say was a tyre blow-out.
“The vehicle veered off the motorway around 00:30 local time. Initial investigations point to a tyre burst as the cause. The car hit a barrier and was engulfed in flames,” a police spokesperson said.
■ Eyewitnesses Alerted Emergency Services
Emergency services were quickly alerted by bystanders who witnessed the horrific crash. Spanish media released images of the Lamborghini in flames, describing the scene as one of total devastation.
“We saw the car go up in flames within seconds. There was nothing anyone could do,” said one eyewitness, who called 112 shortly after the crash.
By the time first responders arrived, the vehicle was completely destroyed, and both occupants had succumbed to the blaze.
■ Football World in Shock
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from teammates, clubs, and fans around the world.
Liverpool Football Club is yet to release an official statement, but sources say the team is in mourning, with grief counsellors called in to support players and staff.
Jota, 28, had become a key player for both Liverpool and the Portuguese national team, known for his relentless work rate, clinical finishing, and tactical intelligence.
■ Career Cut Short
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020 and went on to become a fan favourite at Anfield, making over 150 appearances and scoring crucial goals across Premier League and European competitions. He was also a vital part of Portugal’s squad during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.
The Jota family and the football world now mourn not just the loss of a footballing talent, but a brother, son, and beloved teammate.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. Spanish authorities say investigations into the crash are still ongoing.
