Mango founder Isac Andic’s death being treated as murder – Heir arrested

Catalan police detained Jonathan Andic on Tuesday morning, May 19 over the death of his father, Isak Andic, the founder of fashion giant Mango. Officers from the Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalan police) took the businessman into custody on suspicion of murder following a fall in the Montserrat mountains on December 14 2024.

Authorities took Andic to the courts in Martorell, where he faces questioning before the investigating judge. Sources close to the case confirmed the action as part of a long-running inquiry that has shifted from accident to possible murder.

Family maintains full cooperation

Spokespeople for the Andic family issued a statement stressing complete cooperation with authorities. Jonathan Andic has consistently described the incident as a tragic accident during a mountain walk. Investigators continue to examine evidence gathered over more than a year, including witness accounts from other relatives and Mango executives.

Jonathan Andic, the eldest son, accompanied his father alone on the hike near the Salnitre Caves in Collbató. Isak Andic plunged 150 metres down a precipice and was killed instantly. His son reported hearing a slip but claimed he walked ahead and saw nothing. Emergency services responded to the alert he raised.

Inconsistencies cause fresh scrutiny

Detectives identified contradictions in statements provided by Jonathan Andic. Reports have revealed grey areas in his account that failed to align with forensic findings. The police analysed his mobile phone data, including his movements on the day of his death and prior communications with his father.

Officers also reviewed claims of a strained relationship between father and son. Estefanía Knuth, Isak Andic’s partner and a professional golfer, told investigators about tensions within the family. Jonathan Andic had asked his father’s bodyguard to leave them alone before the hike, according to details shared in court documents.

The case began as a straightforward mountain accident. Judicial authorities initially closed the file after early police reports supported that conclusion. Fresh evidence has now led to reopening proceedings with Jonathan Andic moving from witness to formal suspect.

Business empire built by Isak Andic

Isak Andic arrived in Catalonia from Istanbul at age 14 and built a retail success story from modest beginnings. Born in 1953 into a Sephardic Jewish family, he started selling clothes and shoes at markets before opening denim shops and expanding into seasonal fashion.

Decades of growth made him one of Spain’s wealthiest individuals. Forbes ranked him fifth on its list of Spain’s richest people, with an estimated fortune of €4.5 billion. He served as Mango’s largest shareholder and non-executive president while involving his three children, Jonathan, Judith, and Sarah, in family holding structures.

Mango announced Isak Andic’s death in December 2024 with tributes to his visionary leadership. Chief executive Toni Ruiz described him as an inspiring figure whose values shaped the company. Ruiz emphasised that continuing the founder’s vision was the finest tribute.

Son, Jonathan Andic steps back from operations.

Jonathan Andic stepped down from his executive role as global director of Mango Man in June 2025 after 17 years. He shifted focus to managing family assets while remaining vice-president of the board.

Mango reported strong results for 2025, with profits reaching €242 million, an 11 per cent increase on the previous year. Sales hit a record €3,767 billion, up 13 per cent, while operating profit grew by the same margin to €722 million. Company leaders credited sustained excellence rooted in the founder’s legacy.

Investigation nears key deadline

The arrest occurred just before the latest extension to the judicial inquiry expired. The judge at Martorell’s Court of Instruction number 5 is overseeing proceedings and will hear from Jonathan Andic in the coming hours.

This development adds a dramatic chapter to the story of one of Spain’s most prominent family businesses. Police continue to build their case around testimonial evidence and digital records while the family insists on transparency throughout the process.

Legal experts say that the murder charges at this stage require substantial supporting material, though full details remain under judicial secrecy. Observers expect further updates once Jonathan Andic completes his formal statement.

Founder of Mango, Isac Andic, falls to his death