Problema 1 · Inglés PAU Canarias Julio 2025

Influencer falls to death from bridge in Spain while creating social media content

A 26-year-old British man lost his life on Sunday, October 13, after falling from the Castilla-La Mancha Bridge in Talavera de la Reina, Spain. The young content creator, Lewis Stevenson, was climbing this structure early that morning with another British friend when the tragedy occurred. According to reports, they aimed to film a video during the ascent.

This 192-metre-high bridge, completed in 2011, is known as the tallest in Spain, and its striking triangular design, supported by 152 cables, has made it a notable landmark in the region. Lewis fell from a height of 40 to 50 metres, approximately one quarter of the bridge’s total height. Authorities believe that adverse weather conditions—the surface was wet and slippery due to heavy rain earlier in the day—may have contributed to the accident. Local police confirmed that the climber was not using protective equipment, which significantly increased the risk. Anyway, the police are investigating to determine the precise circumstances of the accident.

Ascending the bridge is strictly prohibited. City officials have repeatedly warned about the dangers of such activities and continue to emphasise the importance of respecting safety regulations. Macarena Muñoz, a city councillor, expressed her sorrow over the event, calling it a “tragic and preventable accident.” Despite the existing restrictions, the Castilla-La Mancha Bridge, which extends across the River Tagus, has become a site of interest for adrenaline junkies.

Lewis Stevenson’s family has shared a genuine tribute, describing him as a passionate traveller and photographer. His mother, Keilia Stevenson, said he was “a thrill-seeker” who loved to explore the world. She explained that he had visited incredible destinations like Easter Island and Machu Picchu, capturing their beauty through his photography.

His family supported his adventurous spirit, though they admitted that they disagreed with his climbing habits. “We didn’t always agree with the risks he took,” his mother said, “but we understood this was part of who he was. Lewis never did anything beyond his limits; it was the fundamental principle in his everyday activity. He followed his passion for unique experiences, not fame.” The family expressed their devastation at his loss, stating that life would never be the same without him.

The UK Foreign Office has confirmed it is assisting the family and is in contact with Spanish authorities. This incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers of ignoring safety rules and highlights the need to prioritise caution throughout any high-risk activity.

Fragment adapted from The Daily Guardian and BBC, October 2024

1. Say whether the following sentences are TRUE or FALSE according to the text. COPY the evidence from the text. No marks will be given without the evidence. (1.5 points)

a)

The British influencer fell from near the top of the bridge.

b)

The reason that cost Lewis his life is still unclear.

c)

The local government has not consistently alerted about the potential dangers of climbing the Castilla-La Mancha Bridge.