Mystery as dad found dead in Magaluf covered in bite mark after being separated from wife when he took wrong turn
A DAD who died on a Magaluf street may have been attacked and run over by a driver, investigators fear.
Irish tourist Michael Grant, 45, was found unresponsive near the Punta Bellena strip in the Spanish hotspot in the early hours of Monday morning.
He was on holiday with his wife Leanne, their four children, and other families when he became separated from their group.
It is understood he took a wrong turn after spending the afternoon drinking by his hotel pool before going out partying.
Irish youth football coach Michael then collapsed while crossing Martin Ros Garcia street.
Investigators initially believed he may have suffered a heart attack, but a duty coroner has found leg injuries that could have been caused by a car.
Bite marks were also found on Michael’s arm and shoulder in an initial pre-autopsy examination.
The physiotherapist from Waterford also had a deep wound with glass inside.
It is feared Michael may have been attacked by a motorist who then ran him over.
Investigators are now waiting on the results of a full autopsy – due to take place later today.
Police are said to be calling in CCTV footage from the area to try to identify the driver suspected of hitting him.
Officers want to see whether the pair had a confrontation that might explain some of his injuries.
A source close to the ongoing inquiry said: “The initial suggestion was that this man’s death could have been linked to what he had consumed before he died.
“But a prior examination of his body ahead of the full autopsy has thrown up some surprises and given investigators cause for concern.
“Injuries on Mr Grant’s leg are consistent with him being run over by a car.
“They don’t appear on the face of it to be life-threatening but they have opened up the possibility his death might not be an accident.”
Investigators don’t know at the this stage whether the bite marks are connected to Michael’s death.
The insider added: “Mr Grant’s friends and loved ones including his wife will be questioned as part of the investigation to see if they can shed any light on what happened and help investigators build up a detailed picture of the last hours of his life.”
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.
Reports yesterday said Michael was believed to have become separated from other members of his group and become disoriented after going out drinking in town following a boozy afternoon by his hotel pool.
A security guard alerted local police, telling officers he had seen the man collapse and fall to the ground.
Attempts to revive him at the scene proved unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
He was identified by the hotel wristband he was wearing and also by the tattooed names of his wife and children on his back.
A spokesman for Calvia Council, which is responsible for the Magaluf area, had said earlier in the day the man was British before it was confirmed he was travelling on an Irish passport.
It said in a statement yesterday: “A 45-year-old man died in the street this morning in the Magaluf area.
“It occurred around 4.30am. The dead man was staying in a hotel in the area.”
Michael was a head child coach at St Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club.
It said in a tribute statement: “As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us – he was a beloved 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 profoundly felt. He was not just a coach but a mentor and a friend to all the children and adult members at St Joseph’s.
“More recently his dedication, passion, and love for the kids were evident in everything he did. He cherished every one of them, and I’m sure you will all agree that his impact was immeasurable.
“Michael, sleep well, dear friend. You will be missed forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club.”
Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: “The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.
“As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case.”
