How double dying scorching tub tragedy unfolded – trapped and located by sons
A London couple on holiday in Spain died in a hot tub horror after a suspected suction malfunction trapped the dad underwater and his wife jumped in to save him
Google Maps screenshot of were the couple was found dead, at a rented villa on an upmarket residential estate called Cap Blanc in Cullera
A London-based couple who died in a holiday villa hot tub in Spain were found by their two teenage sons after being trapped underwater in a freak suction incident.
Thomasina Tobin, 51, died trying to save her husband Patrick Tobin, 48, after he became pinned beneath the water at the villa’s private spa in the gated Colina del Sol complex in Cullera, near Valencia, Spain.
Below is everything we know so far about how the tragedy unfolded, what investigators believe happened, and what the post-mortems found.
Who were Thomasina and Patrick Tobin?
Thomasina was a London-based quantity surveyor originally from Monaghan, Ireland. Patrick was originally from New Zealand.
Thomasina Tobin(Image: LinkedIn/Belfast Live)
The couple were on a two-week family holiday in Spain with their sons, aged 14 and 16, who both have additional support needs.
Where did it happen?
The deaths happened at a luxury rental villa in the Cap Blanc area of Cullera, near Valencia, with the hot tub located on the lowest floor of the property.
How the hot tub tragedy unfolded
Investigators believe the incident began late on Monday (August 24), when the couple went to use the jacuzzi. Police believe Patrick was suddenly pinned or trapped underwater by the hot tub’s hydro-massage drainage and filtration system, which can create a powerful vacuum if it malfunctions.
She was found dead with her New Zealand husband Patrick
It is believed Thomasina then frantically got into the water to try to pull him free, but was caught by the same suction mechanism. Preliminary forensic findings reported by Spanish media say the couple fought violently against the vacuum for a prolonged period, clawing at the machinery and trying to wrench each other free.
Cause of death
Their deaths were caused by sudden cardiac arrests brought on by extreme physical exhaustion and acute panic, according to post-mortem records cited by local outlet Las Provincias.
Horror discovery and aftermath
The couple were not found for around 12 to 14 hours. On Tuesday (August 25), their sons reportedly woke up and searched the villa room by room.
At around 5pm, they found their parents unresponsive near the hot tub area on the lowest floor. The boys ran to alert a neighbour, who raised the alarm and called emergency services.
The rented villa on an upmarket residential estate called Cap Blanc in Cullera where the couple died (Google Maps screenshot)
Homicide detectives were initially called because both bodies had scratches and bruises. However, investigators say no foul play was involved, with pathologists believing the injuries were consistent with a frantic struggle against the hot tub suction system.
While suction entrapment remains the main theory, a judge has ordered further specialist checks, including; a third inspection of the spa’s wiring, to rule out an electrical fault or electrocution trigger, and toxicology tests, including checks for any noxious gas exposure from the pump motor
Spanish judicial investigations remain open, while consular authorities are working on repatriation arrangements and family members are supporting the couple’s sons.
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