I see your point however the fact one has residencia is on the police records so it should be posible for national police immigration officers to confirm that. Of course there could be a problem with being allowed by the airline to board.
Unless we get news from the OP that the problem is solvable i will ask the police next time i am there My wife could be in that situation if she lost her residencia whilst out of the EU. Thanks for the post.
Further to the above
l have just asked the officer in charge of an extranjeria (National police) your question
You need to make a report to the Spanish consulate in the country where you are, that you have lost your residencia card (TIE). You will then be issued with papers enabling you to return to the EU. Without that paperwork you will not be allowed to enter the EU which would mean the aiine/ ferry etc would not allow you to board a plane, ship etc
This message was last edited by johnzx on 01/08/2019.