A video depicting a violent assault on a woman in her 30s by her partner, a professional firefighter in Machico, Madeira, went viral on social media. The incident, recorded early Sunday morning, has led to police involvement, with the case now referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The attack occurred in front of the couple’s minor child and was captured by surveillance cameras in Água de Pena. The footage, which spread widely online, sparked public outrage. Regional media also reported that the injured woman received medical attention at Machico Health Center before being transferred to Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital.
The footage, which some outlets chose not to share due to its violent nature, shows the suspect ringing the doorbell and entering the home amid the victim’s screams. He is later seen exiting behind her and attacking violently as their child pleads for him to stop. “Dad, don’t hit, please,” the child is heard saying, while the woman sobs on the ground.
Police were called to the scene, identified the suspect, and passed the case to the Public Prosecutor. Further clarifications are awaited from security forces.
The suspect, a municipal employee and firefighter in Machico, also works as a barber, confirmed Ricardo Franco, the Mayor of Machico.
The Machico Fire Brigade Command expressed “deep dismay” over the involvement of one of its members in what they termed an “utterly reprehensible act.” They stated their opposition to any form of violence and called for justice to be served. Legal services are already taking necessary steps in response.
“I Saw Some Messages and Lost Control”
The suspect expressed “deep regret” in comments to Diário de Notícias da Madeira, saying, “I saw some messages and lost control. That’s what happened, and I apologize.”
The woman is receiving support from Social Security, as confirmed by Paula Margarido, the regional secretary for Inclusion, Youth, and Labor. She said the case has been closely monitored by the Madeira Social Security Institute’s victim support team since early morning, ensuring all necessary measures are taken to protect the victim and her family, describing herself as “deeply shocked” by the event.
“This is an extremely serious situation that demands a swift, firm, and appropriate response,” she added.
