Daijiworld Media Network- Florida

Florida, Jul 24: A 51-year-old tourist from Spain was arrested and charged with child abuse after allegedly assaulting a 17-year-old girl during a crowded evening parade at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Bay Lake, Florida.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office (OCSO), the incident took place on July 21 around 9:40 pm near Main Street USA, close to Cinderella Castle, where hundreds had gathered to witness the nightly parade. The accused, identified as Martha Lucia Zapata-Echeverri, allegedly grabbed the teen's arm in a bid to secure a better view for herself and her daughter.

The teen claimed she was standing in her designated spot when Zapata-Echeverri approached and placed a hand on her elbow, reportedly to gain space. Moments later, she allegedly yanked the girl’s arm, leaving visible bruises and “nail marks,” according to the arrest affidavit obtained by PEOPLE.

Deputies reported a minor abrasion and bruise on the girl's arm. Although the altercation occurred in a public area, officials stated that no security footage or independent eyewitnesses could confirm the incident.

Zapata-Echeverri, a Colombian national currently residing in Spain, told deputies that she was trying to follow her daughter to the front of the crowd. She claimed the teen had pushed her first but failed to explain how the visible injuries had occurred.

Based on the physical evidence and the teenager’s statement, authorities booked Zapata-Echeverri on child abuse charges. She was later released from Orange County Jail after posting a bond of $2,500 (approximately Rs 2 lakh). Her attorney confirmed she was visiting the U.S. on a tourist visa since July 2 and was scheduled to depart Florida on July 23.