Debra Wright, 47, was riding a jet ski with her husband Chris when the collision happened at Los Toros beach in Manilva, Costa del Sol – and tragically died in his arms
A Brit mum-of-four tragically died in her husband’s arms after a horrific crash between a jet ski and a speedboat on a beach in Spain’s Costa del Sol.
Debra Wright, 47, was riding a jet ski with her husband Chris when the pair were caught in the collision on Saturday evening at Los Toros beach in Manilva, just west of Estepona. The speedboat was allegedly driven by a friend of the couple, who reportedly failed a breath test after the crash. Chris, 52, chairman of Ashton Town FC, swam to his wife in the aftermath and cradled her as she slipped away.
READ MORE: Brit wife of football club chairman killed in horrific Costa del Sol jet ski crash
Debra, a primary school teaching assistant, was described by her heartbroken husband as “the glue” of the family. In tribute, Chris said: “My darling wife was a 47-year-old mother of four wonderful sons, Stuart, Jack, Josh and Leon and a nanny to seven beautiful grandchildren.
“She was an incredible sister and doting daughter. She was our compass, the glue to bind the family, an amazing woman whose glow would fill any room. She was so enigmatic, inspirational and loving. Our family will never be the same.”
In a heartbreaking tribute posted to Facebook, Debra’s son, Stuart McDonald, said: “MUM… I never knew how much I needed someone until now, I’m so sorry that I didn’t tell you just how much I loved you every single day.
“You meant the world to me. You know I was never one for a Facebook post, but this is just for you. Sleep tight Mum, I miss you so much. Life will never be the same without you.”
Paying tribute in another post, Debra’s son Leon Wright said: “Words can’t describe how much I’m missing you right now. You were the life and soul of every party, I am so happy to be called your son and I couldn’t have asked for anyone better to be my mum.”
The couple were riding the jet ski when it was struck from behind off Los Toros beach, a police source said. Spanish court officials said the speedboat driver was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and an alcohol-related offence after failing a breath test. According to local outlets, including Diario Sur, the reading on the breath test was not a high one.
The man was reportedly released after a secret court hearing on Sunday, with the investigation still ongoing. He remains unnamed and has not been formally charged with any offence.
Ashton Town FC, which is based in Greater Manchester and plays in the North West Counties League Division One North, said in a statement on Monday: “It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that on behalf of Ashton Town FC we announce the tragic death of Debra Wright, the wife of Chris our Chairman who was tragically killed whilst on holiday in Spain on Saturday evening.
“Our family are in mourning at this sad time and we ask for time for Chris and his family and everyone at the club to be able to start to come to terms with this tragedy.
“RIP Debra, fly high sweetheart x.”