Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas

Dinner time in the beautiful tree lined promenade of Las  Ramblas

At the height of a beautiful summer day thronged with locals and tourists

People heading home from work will meet in the local outdoor cafes

Excited to meet and talk with friends about the events of their day

A steak dinner and enjoying a glass of wine from a local Spanish vineyard

The warmth of the sun makes it a glorious end to an otherwise tiring day

Cheers as the group of friends celebrate prosperity, wealth and good health

And the thankfulness of life in a wonderful city where they were raised

Within seconds, total carnage disrupts the joyous celebration

As extremists plow their van through the pedestrian outdoor mall

Total chaos erupts with screams from the bewildered crowds

Not realizing what is taking place as bodies are hurled through the air

People are running, screaming with fear of what's taking place

Bodies lying all around, some already deceased, others maimed and injured

The wailing of ambulance and police sirens can be heard in the distance

Paramedics start to arrive to take care of the injured as bodies are covered with blankets

 Others are huddled together crying and comforting each other

Another attack in Europe, after a spate of attacks in other countries

In the aftermath of the attack, left behind are blood spattered sidewalks

Hats, shoes, clothing and personal items of those who had been injured

Once again, another vehicle used as a lethal weapon by extremists

Inspired by ideologies, minds perverted to kill the innocent bystander

Violence erupting in a beautiful peaceful Spanish community

Enjoying life in beautiful Las Ramblas for some, ended in a violent death

Written by Chris Turner

August 17, 2017.