The events, described as «of a gravity and vileness difficult to qualify», occurred around April 15. According to a statement, «someone tore off the commemorative plaque dedicated to the 230 fatalities of the DANA on October 29, 2024, destroyed the candles and stones that made up the memorial, and left the place in a state of total desolation».
This plaque was part of a «memory space» created on July 18, 2025, by residents of Albal. An olive tree, a symbol of peace and permanence, was planted there, turning this corner of the park into a place of collective remembrance and mourning for the worst natural catastrophe in the recent history of the Valencian Community.
“"What was a living memorial, with flowers, lit candles, and black ribbons, is today a desecrated space: the plaque lies torn on the ground; the wall tiles appear broken and scattered across the grass, and the stones and candles surrounding the olive tree have been destroyed or displaced."
The residents believe that this act is not simply vandalism, but «a fascist attack on collective memory, a deliberate attempt to erase the grief and dignity of those who lost their lives». They have warned that they will not allow the motto «Neither oblivion nor forgiveness» to be forgotten.
In response, the residents have announced that on May 8, at 8:00 PM, they will gather again in the Parc de Correus for an act of memorial restoration. During this event, the plaque will be reinstalled, the remembrance space will be renewed, and homage will be paid to the 230 victims as part of the commemoration of one and a half years since the tragedy. They affirmed: «The olive tree still stands. And so do we. Neither oblivion, nor forgiveness».
