A tragic incident occurred in the Canary Islands where a father-of-two lost his life after a wooden bannister rail collapsed on a balcony, causing a 20-foot fall. The victim, identified as respected shopkeeper Darren Silcox, 56, was vacationing at the Costa Teguise resort in Lanzarote. Alongside another British holidaymaker, Mr. Silcox was standing on the balcony when the railing gave way.
The fall resulted in Mr. Silcox’s death from the injuries sustained, while the other man, aged 54, suffered severe injuries and was hospitalized. The incident took place at the Galeon Playa Apartments in Costa Teguise, where the two men were staying with their families.
During the inquest into the tragedy, it was revealed that Mr. Silcox fell into the atrium stairwell following the collapse of the wooden bannister. Authorities, including the local civil guard, are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Area Coroner for Gwent, Rose Farmer, disclosed that Mr. Silcox’s death was attributed to a traumatic brain injury, skull fractures, and skull lacerations resulting from the fall. The community was shocked by the news, especially customers of his two stores in Pontnewydd and Five Locks.
Tragically, Mr. Silcox’s wife had passed away the previous year, leaving their two children without parents. The authorities are focusing on whether maintenance or safety lapses contributed to the railing’s failure. Emergency services responded to the incident around 1:30 am, with Mr. Silcox succumbing to his injuries at 3:30 am.
The surviving man received immediate medical treatment and was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit at Doctor Jose Molina Orosa Hospital. The incident has raised concerns about safety standards in tourist accommodations, though the specific hotel involved has not been named.
The inquest has been adjourned for a full hearing scheduled for July 20, 2026.
