Four Convicted in Spain Over Homophobic Murder That Sparked Nationwide Protests

MADRID – Four men were convicted on Sunday for their roles in the brutal homophobic murder of 24-year-old Samuel Luiz, a nursing assistant whose death in July 2021 prompted mass protests across Spain and international condemnation.

The attack occurred outside a nightclub in A Coruña, in Spain’s northwestern Galicia region. Luiz was beaten by a group of individuals and succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Diego Montaña, identified as the group leader, along with Alejandro Freire and Kaio Amaral, were found guilty of aggravated murder. A fourth individual, Alejandro Míguez, was convicted of complicity.

The jury concluded that Montaña targeted Luiz based on his presumed sexual orientation, using homophobic slurs during the assault and making anti-gay remarks afterward. Evidence from a trial lasting nearly four weeks pointed to homophobia as a motive, which the court recognized in its verdict.

The jury deliberated for an unusually long five days before reaching their decision. Sentencing is pending, but prosecutors have requested prison terms ranging from 22 to 27 years for the convicted.

Luiz’s murder highlighted ongoing issues with LGBTQ+ violence in Spain. According to the Interior Ministry, 364 hate crimes related to sexual orientation or gender identity were reported in 2023, leading to 184 arrests. However, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights notes that many hate crimes remain unreported.

The case galvanized public outrage, with thousands participating in protests demanding justice for Luiz and stronger protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Advocates hope the convictions mark a step forward in addressing hate crimes in Spain.