After nearly three days of uncertainty, the whereabouts of Jonathan Ortiz, a 26-year-old electric tricycle driver reported missing since Tuesday morning, have finally been clarified. Thanks to the mobilization of Facebook users and the efforts of the police, Ortiz was located on Thursday under the influence of drugs in a rundown house in Old Havana.
His friend Mileidis Pérez, who had initially raised the alarm about his disappearance, announced his discovery in the Facebook group "Bicimotos y triciclos en La Habana." She mentioned that the search gained significant momentum when several online users sent potential location tips via private messages.
Armed with these leads, First Lieutenant Pablo Valdés from the Picota Street Police Unit orchestrated a successful operation with another officer, culminating in Ortiz being found outside a dilapidated building. The residence, where a family also struggling with substance abuse lives, was in poor condition.
"The young man was on drugs with a family in the same condition, despite the presence of minors in that household in very poor conditions," Mileidis detailed. The intervention also led to the recovery of the electric tricycle, which had been feared stolen or vandalized.
"Fortunately, the tricycle, which wasn't his, was recovered. Initially, there was a fear that he might have been attacked and possibly killed; thankfully, this was not the case," Mileidis expressed. "It's disappointing because I never thought he was the type of person who used those substances," she added.
Social Media Mobilization and Initial Report
The disappearance of Ortiz came to light when Mileidis reported the case and sought assistance. In that post, she described Jonathan as a "good guy, a homebody with no malice" and explained that after losing contact and not receiving any calls, she filed a report with the police. She also shared two phone numbers for those who could provide information to help locate the missing tricycle rider.
Questions Regarding Jonathan Ortiz's Disappearance and Recovery
How was Jonathan Ortiz found?
Jonathan Ortiz was found through the efforts of Facebook users who provided location tips and a police operation led by First Lieutenant Pablo Valdés.
What condition was Ortiz in when he was discovered?
He was under the influence of drugs in a decrepit house in Old Havana, accompanied by a family also affected by substance abuse.
Was the electric tricycle recovered?
Yes, the electric tricycle was recovered in good condition, contrary to fears that it had been stolen or vandalized.