The Provincial Prosecutor's Office in Santiago de Cuba has requested a 20-year prison sentence for Marcos René Vera, who stands accused of murdering Breezy Alexnay, a father of two infants, known legally as Guillermo Alexnay Céspedes Chacón. The murder, which took place just over a year ago, sent shockwaves through the city. Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada reported on Facebook that the final verdict is expected to be announced on July 22.
The trial was held in the Santiago Provincial Court, marked by an intense emotional atmosphere. Family members of the victim attended the trial wearing white shirts emblazoned with Breezy's image, a poignant tribute to the 25-year-old whose life was tragically cut short. According to another report by Mayeta, Vera, a resident of the Los Pinos neighborhood, had previously been convicted of another homicide. In that incident at the "Rapidito de Martí," he stabbed a young man, mistaking him for an alleged foe. Despite the severity of this earlier crime, Vera served only a brief sentence, which some dismissed as "youthful mistakes."
Breezy's murder reportedly stemmed from a conflict between Vera and one of Breezy’s cousins, supposedly involving a dispute over a woman. Breezy, not directly involved in this altercation, tragically became the casualty of a situation unrelated to him. Following the murder, Vera attempted to flee the country, allegedly with the help of acquaintances in Cuba and relatives abroad. Unofficial sources suggest he was apprehended during an illegal departure near Pinar del Río, though this has not been formally confirmed.
Throughout the proceedings, journalist Mayeta has criticized efforts to justify Vera's actions by some supporters both within Cuba and overseas. "No one should justify a murder," he asserted, countering those who downplay the crime by referencing Vera's youth or supposed retaliations.
As the trial unfolds and the prosecution calls for a 20-year sentence, Breezy's family anxiously awaits justice. In February 2024, relatives of Guillermo Alexnay Céspedes Chacón staged a protest outside a police station in Santiago de Cuba, demanding justice for his stabbing death. During his funeral at Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, mourners bid farewell with cries of "Patria y Vida."
Key Questions about the Santiago de Cuba Murder Case
Who is Marcos René Vera?
Marcos René Vera is the accused murderer of Breezy Alexnay, and he has a prior conviction for another homicide.
What is the significance of the 20-year sentence request?
The 20-year sentence request underscores the severity of the crime and the prosecution's commitment to seeking justice for the victim's family.
Why was Breezy Alexnay a victim?
Breezy Alexnay was not directly involved in the dispute but became a victim due to a conflict between Vera and a cousin of the victim.