Paloma Abad recalls the tragic moment she identified her sister Rocio’s body after the Omagh bombing
Omagh: On August 15, 1998, a tragic car bomb exploded in the town center. Rocio Abad Ramos, just 23, was among the victims. The Real IRA detonated a 500lb bomb, killing 29 people, including a pregnant woman.
Rocio was in Omagh with Spanish students after visiting the Ulster American Folk Park. They were part of a language-exchange program and had been staying in Buncrana, Co Donegal.
Her sister, Paloma, spoke at the Strule Arts Centre during the public inquiry. She shared that Rocio was outgoing and loved sports. They called her ‘Peke,’ meaning ‘little one,’ as she was the youngest.
Paloma recalled how excited Rocio was before leaving for Ireland. Their parents hugged her goodbye, unaware it would be their last moment together.
Rocio died while trying to help her students escape the chaos. After her death, her family flew to Northern Ireland to bring her home.
Paloma described the painful moment of identifying Rocio’s body. She remembered seeing her sister covered with a sheet. She wanted to touch her foot but found nothing underneath.
Only her sister’s head remained. Paloma was struck by the calm expression on Rocio’s face. It was a moment she would never forget.
Rocio’s remains were returned to Spain with military escort. Her funeral was private, but she had two public ceremonies first.
Paloma’s family has kept ties with Buncrana. Her children participated in the same language-exchange program. It took her 20 years to trust them to go back to Ireland.
Paloma expressed hope that the inquiry would finally provide answers about the bombing. She emphasized the importance of remembering the victims and seeking the truth.
After the inquiry session, a slideshow of Rocio was shown. Earlier, a statement was read about another victim, 12-year-old Fernando Blasco Baselga, who also died in the bombing.
The inquiry aims to uncover the truth behind the Omagh bombing and provide closure for the families affected. A minute of silence was held to honor the victims.
The inquiry will continue, commemorating more victims in the coming days.
