Jonathan Andic, son of Mango founder Isak Andic, announced on May 26 that he is temporarily stepping down as the fashion group's vice-chair to focus on his legal defense amid a criminal investigation [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7].

Isak Andic, 71, died on December 14, 2024, after falling more than 100 metres (approximately 330 to 500 feet) from a cliff while hiking near Barcelona in the Montserrat mountains with Jonathan, who is 45 years old [1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7].

The case was initially treated as an accidental death but was reopened in October 2025 following inconsistencies in Jonathan Andic’s statements and forensic evidence suggesting the fall may not have been accidental [6, 7]. A Spanish court named Jonathan a suspect last week, citing sufficient evidence that he may have played "an active and premeditated role" in his father's death [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Jonathan Andic was arrested for questioning on May 19 and released on bail after paying €1 million (about $1.2 million) [2, 6, 7]. The judge’s indictment alleges that the father-son relationship had deteriorated due to Jonathan’s obsession with money. It also cites WhatsApp messages in which Jonathan expressed hatred, resentment, and blamed his father for his situation [1, 3, 4].

Jonathan has strongly denied all allegations. He described the narrative as "biased, distorted and taken out of context," creating "a perception of guilt that has nothing to do with reality" [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]. Jonathan also said, "We shared many happy, cherished and loving moments together. As is the case in so many families, we have also faced difficult and challenging times, which we have overcome through great effort, generosity and support" [1, 2, 3, 4].

Jonathan was appointed executive vice-president of Mango's holding company in January 2025, about six weeks after his father’s death [1, 3, 4]. The company’s board has expressed full confidence in him and hopes for a swift and favorable resolution of the proceedings [1, 2, 3, 4]. Mango CEO Toni Ruiz stated, "We have the full support and long-term vision of our shareholders, a clear, distinctive strategy and a corporate governance model aligned with the highest standards" [2].

Investigators reviewed Jonathan’s accounts of the incident and note he made at least three visits to the hiking site before the fall, providing varying details about his father’s position and actions before the accident [7]. Some sources reported inconsistencies in these accounts, while others made no explicit note of them [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7].

Jonathan said he made the decision to step down "sadly, but convinced that it is what's best for the company and for me... I need to concentrate all my energy on demonstrating my innocence" [7].

The investigation and court proceedings are ongoing.