Paula Alvarellos, mayor of Lugo, dies after heart attack

Saturday 01 March 2025 - 14:00

By: Zahouani Ilham

Paula Alvarellos, mayor of Lugo, dies after heart attack

Paula Alvarellos, the Mayor of Lugo, passed away on Saturday after suffering a heart attack on Friday, just before the opening speech of the city’s Carnival celebrations. Sources from the PSdeG confirmed her death after she had been transferred to the University Hospital Complex of A Coruña from the local hospital where she was initially treated.

Alvarellos, born in 1963 in Ponteceso, was taken to the Lucus Augusti University Hospital in Lugo after feeling unwell before the Entroido speech. Medical staff confirmed she had suffered a heart attack. Due to her sudden illness, the Carnival event was canceled, and the city council announced the suspension of all related festivities.

Paula Alvarellos had recently been appointed as mayor on January 18, 2024, following the resignation of Lara Méndez, who left the post to run for the Galician Parliament. Before entering politics, Alvarellos worked as a lawyer and later joined the Socialist Party, contributing to the party's efforts in Lugo. She had been Deputy Mayor and in charge of several key areas before taking the mayor’s office.

The PSdeG expressed deep sadness over her passing, describing Alvarellos as not only a dedicated mayor but also a hardworking and loyal person. José Ramón Gómez Besteiro, the PSdeG Secretary, mourned the loss, calling it “unjust” and “too soon.” The party pledged to honor her legacy by continuing to serve the city she loved. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Galicia’s President Alfonso Rueda also sent their condolences, highlighting her contributions to Lugo and her commitment to progress and justice.