The Tragic Death of Mango Founder Isak Andic
The global fashion industry was shaken in December 2024 when Isak Andic, the billionaire founder of the fashion powerhouse Mango, died during a hike in the Montserrat mountain range near Barcelona, Spain. The 71-year-old businessman reportedly fell more than 320 feet while walking with his eldest son, Jonathan Andic, 44.
Initially described as a tragic accident, the case has taken a dramatic turn nearly a year later — as Spanish authorities have reportedly opened a judicial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fall.
A Routine Hike Turns Fatal
According to reports from The Times (U.K.) and Spanish outlets El Periódico and El País, the father and son were hiking along the Les Feixades trail, a scenic three-mile path linking the Salnitre caves in Collbató with the Montserrat monastery. It’s a popular route frequented by families and tourists, but it also contains sections without guardrails or fencing.
Jonathan, who was walking ahead of his father, told authorities he heard the sound of falling rocks before turning to see his father plunge off a cliff. Despite emergency efforts, Isak was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police initially ruled the death an accidental fall, citing no immediate evidence of foul play. However, inconsistencies in Jonathan’s statements have reportedly prompted renewed scrutiny.
Police Reopen Case, Shift Focus to Possible Homicide
Spanish newspaper El País reports that investigators have reclassified the case from a mountain accident to a possible homicide. Jonathan Andic’s status has reportedly changed from witness to suspect, according to El Periódico, citing sources close to the investigation.
The Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia’s regional police, are said to be analyzing new evidence — including data extracted from Jonathan’s cell phone — as part of the judicial review.
However, law enforcement sources caution that the leading theory remains that Isak’s death was accidental, emphasizing that no definitive evidence of wrongdoing has been found.
A spokesperson for the Mossos d’Esquadra told People:
“The investigation is under judicial review and is subject to secrecy of proceedings.”
Family Maintains Jonathan’s Innocence
Through representatives, the Andic family has firmly denied any allegations of foul play. In a statement shared via Reuters, the family said:
“The Andic family has not commented, and will not comment, on Isak Andic’s death. It wishes to show respect for the ongoing proceedings and will continue cooperating fully with the authorities. The family is confident that this process will end soon and that Jonathan Andic’s innocence will be proven.”
Jonathan currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board at Mango Fashion Group, continuing the legacy his father began more than four decades ago.
Remembering Isak Andic: From Barcelona Boutique to Global Fashion Empire
Born in Istanbul, Isak Andic immigrated to Spain as a young man and founded Mango in 1984, opening his first store in Barcelona. Through his vision and leadership, Mango became one of Europe’s largest and most recognizable fashion brands, rivaling global giants like Zara and H&M.
At the time of his death, Forbes estimated Andic’s net worth at $4.5 billion. Under his direction, Mango expanded to over 2,900 stores worldwide, maintaining a strong presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
In a heartfelt statement following Andic’s passing, Mango CEO Toni Ruiz said:
“It is with deep regret that we announce the unexpected death of Isak Andic, our non-executive chairman and founder of Mango, in an accident that occurred this Saturday.
Isak dedicated his life to Mango, leaving an indelible mark through his vision, leadership, and commitment to the company’s values.”
Ruiz added that Mango’s global team would “honor his legacy” by continuing to build upon the foundation Andic established.
A Legacy of Innovation and Global Reach
Mango’s enduring success is a testament to Isak Andic’s entrepreneurial spirit. Known for his forward-thinking approach to fashion retail, Andic championed digital transformation and international expansion.
In a 2025 press release, Mango confirmed continued growth, reporting a 12% increase in sales in the first half of the year and 78 new store openings worldwide.
Andic’s passing leaves not only a leadership void in the fashion industry but also unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding his final moments in the Montserrat mountains.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Speculation
While authorities maintain that the primary hypothesis remains accidental, the reopening of the case has fueled speculation across Spain’s media landscape. Legal experts caution, however, that the change in Jonathan’s legal status does not necessarily imply guilt.
Judicial secrecy laws in Spain prevent further disclosure of evidence or case details until official findings are released.
For now, the Andic family continues to grieve privately, while Mango remains focused on preserving the founder’s vision — a global fashion empire built on innovation, accessibility, and style.
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