Tragic Death of Spanish Singer Encarnita Polo Under Investigation

The cultural community in Spain is mourning the loss of renowned singer Encarnita Polo, who passed away at the age of 86 in a nursing home in Ávila. Her death, which occurred on Friday evening, is being treated as a potential homicide by local authorities. The Provincial Judicial Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing, which has left many in shock.

Reports indicate that an elderly resident at the nursing home, who suffers from senile dementia, is suspected of being involved in the incident. The motive for the alleged attack remains unclear, according to police sources. The individual is currently hospitalized in a psychiatric ward in Ávila, under police custody until they are deemed fit for judicial proceedings.

Encarnita Polo, originally from Sevilla, was a prominent figure in the pop and copla music scene during the 1960s and 1970s, achieving fame with her hit song "Paco, Paco, Paco." However, her later years were marked by financial difficulties, prompting her relocation from Madrid to Ávila.

Polo's financial struggles began in 2002 when she faced eviction from her home in Madrid after a lengthy legal battle lasting 22 years. Following this, she rented various apartments, struggling to maintain her livelihood. The situation worsened after she lost her life savings of EUR70,000 in the 2012 Bankia preferred shares scandal, which left her with a monthly income of only EUR900.

In light of her economic challenges, she moved to Ávila to be closer to her daughter, Raquel, and to find a more affordable living situation. Despite her hardships, Polo remained a beloved figure at social events in Madrid, where her presence was always celebrated. Her friends, including notable personalities from the cultural scene, indicated that she struggled with the loss of her peers and the diminishing opportunities for public appearances.

Polo's last musical endeavor came in 1998 with the release of her album "Loca," for which she sold a piece of land she owned to finance its production. She was known for her willingness to risk her financial stability to pursue her artistic projects, similar to other prominent figures in the entertainment industry.

In 2021, she faced a health scare when diagnosed with breast cancer, but she reported that it was caught early, and she did not require a mastectomy. Despite her resilience, she expressed concerns about the unpredictable nature of cancer and its lasting impact on her life.

Polo also made headlines in 2022 following controversial remarks regarding the LGBTQ+ community, for which she later apologized. Her deep love for her daughter was evident throughout her struggles, and she sought to create a life for them both in Ávila.

Following her death, sources close to the family have confirmed that Encarnita Polo will be laid to rest in Ávila after a memorial service at the mortuary where her body is currently held. Her daughter, Raquel, has requested privacy during this difficult time, emphasizing the profound loss she feels. She described her mother as a pioneering artist in flamenco-pop, whose voice and spirit resonated across generations, while also highlighting her unique character as a mother.

This tragic event not only marks the end of an era for Encarnita Polo but also raises questions about the circumstances leading to her untimely death. As the investigation unfolds, the cultural community continues to honor her legacy and the impact she had on Spanish music.