A FATHER became disoriented and wandered away from his group before being mysteriously found dead in Magaluf, it is understood.
Irish tourist Michael Grant, 45, spent the day poolside and partying before being found unconscious near the famous Punta Ballena strip in the Spanish tourist hotspot.
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Investigators fear he may have been attacked and run over by a car.
The father of four had bicycle marks on his arm and shoulder, as well as a deep glass wound when he was found in the early hours of Monday.
A pre-autopsy examination also revealed that youth football coach Michael had leg injuries that could have been caused by a car.
Investigators initially feared Michael had suffered a heart attack.
He was on holiday with his wife Leanne, their four children and other families when he became separated from the group.
Michael spent the afternoon drinking at the hotel pool before heading out to a party.
He became disoriented and took the wrong path, as far as we know.
The Waterford physiotherapist was found unconscious on Martin Ros Garcia Street at around 4.30am.
Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was identified by his hotel bracelet and also by the names of his wife and children tattooed on his back.
It is feared that Michael was attacked by a driver who ran him over.
A source close to the ongoing inquiry said: “The initial suggestion was that this man’s death could be linked to what he consumed before he died.
“But a preliminary examination of his body before the full autopsy threw up some surprises and gave investigators cause for concern.
“The injuries to Mr Grant’s leg are consistent with him being hit by a car.
“They do not appear to be life-threatening, but they have opened up the possibility that his death was not an accident.”
Investigators do not know at this time if the bite marks are linked to Michael’s death.
Investigators are awaiting the results of a full autopsy.
CCTV footage of the area where Michael collapsed is now being recalled as detectives investigate what caused his death.
If Michael was hit, the cops want to track down the driver.
They will also investigate whether the pair had a confrontation that could explain some of their injuries.
Michael’s family and friends in Spain will be questioned as part of the investigation.
The source added: “[Theywillbequestionedtoseeiftheycanshedanylightonwhathappenedandhelpinvestigatorsbuildupadetailedpictureofthelasthoursofhislife”[Elesserãointerrogadosparaversepodemesclareceroqueaconteceueajudarosinvestigadoresaconstruirumquadrodetalhadodasúltimashorasdesuavida”[Theywillbequestionedtoseeiftheycanshedanylightonwhathappenedandhelpinvestigatorsbuildupadetailedpictureofthelasthoursofhislife”
Michael was part of a group of families staying at the four-star Sol Katmandu Park and Resort in Magaluf, which describes itself online as a popular hotel for families with young children.
‘IMMEASURABLE IMPACT’
He was hailed as a “dear friend” in a moving tribute shared by St Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club, where Michael was coach.
It said: “As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us – he was a dear friend and, as a club and for his family, we need time to process this devastating loss.
“Michael was an integral part of our community and his absence will be deeply felt.
“He was not just a coach, but a mentor and friend to all the children and adults at St Joseph’s.
“More recently, his dedication, passion and love for children has been evident in everything he has done.
“He valued each and every one of them and I’m sure everyone will agree that his impact was immeasurable.
“Michael, sleep well, dear friend. We will miss you forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club.”
Dozens of people also shared their condolences, calling Michael’s death “incredibly sad.”
A well-wisher said: “Sincere condolences to Michael’s family and all his friends and club mates at St Joseph’s FC. Michael was a fantastic friend who made you feel great after talking to him.
“He will be greatly missed by everyone.”
Another wrote: “RIP friend, the laughs and messes we made inside and outside of school will never be forgotten.
“Thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. He will be missed but not forgotten.”
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
