Argentine arrested in Spain for alleged murder of woman; suspect attempted suicide

Spanish authorities have arrested a 60-year-old Argentine national in Málaga on suspicion of murdering Melinda, a 45-year-old woman found dead in her apartment on July 21. The suspect reportedly attempted suicide during his apprehension, approximately 30 kilometers from the crime scene, and is currently receiving medical treatment for self-inflicted injuries.

The investigation began after neighbors reported hearing screams and witnessing a man fleeing the apartment in the Los Arqueros urbanization. Police and medical personnel discovered Melinda, of Hungarian origin, with a fatal neck wound. Initial findings suggest the attacker used a utility knife before escaping.

Authorities identified the suspect as the victim's roommate, with whom she had reportedly been in a romantic relationship during the pandemic. Melinda owned the apartment and had rented a room to the accused. The Guardia Civil launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remained at large until his capture on Friday.

The incident occurs amid a disturbing rise in gender-based violence in the province, with Melinda's death being the sixth femicide reported in the region within the last month. Previous cases include a woman shot by her husband, another murdered by her ex-partner, a mother and daughter found stabbed, and a woman killed by her ex-partner.