A Cuban man was one of three people killed in a violent attack early Saturday morning in Hidalgo, Mexico. The victim, identified as Héctor Jorge Ramos Torres, 34, originally from Santiago de Cuba, was among those shot dead around 2:30 a.m. in the Las Pintas neighborhood of Tolcayuca.
The news of Ramos' death was confirmed by influencer Niover Licea and later corroborated by the victim's family through social media. Ramos, who hailed from El Caney and lived in the Flores area of Santiago de Cuba's capital, moved to Mexico approximately two years ago.
According to a Facebook statement by the Hidalgo Public Security Secretariat, one of the other victims was an investigative officer with the State of Mexico's Attorney General's Office, though the officer's name was not disclosed. Neither the Cuban victim nor the third individual was identified in the release.
The scene unfolded along a rural road in Las Pintas, 360 meters from the State of Mexico border. Local police discovered a black Jeep Rubicon with Michoacán plates, riddled with at least 20 bullet holes, as reported by La Jornada de Hidalgo. Two men were found lying next to the vehicle, while a third was in the back seat. Paramedics from Civil Protection confirmed all three were deceased, showing no signs of life.
Investigation and Aftermath
Authorities discovered spent shell casings from 9mm and .223 caliber ammunition, typically exclusive to military use, according to the report. The Hidalgo State Attorney General's Office has taken charge of the triple homicide investigation. So far, no arrests have been made, and the assailants remain unidentified.
Family Seeks Support for Repatriation
Ramos' family and friends have appealed for assistance in returning his body to Cuba for a final farewell in his homeland. Licea mentioned on social media that those wishing to contribute can contact him to coordinate donations.
Ramos' untimely death has deeply affected his community in Santiago de Cuba. "May God hold you in glory, brother," wrote his cousin David Torres in a heartfelt Facebook post, echoing the sentiments of many who expressed their grief and condolences online.
Increasing Violence Against Cuban Immigrants
In the past four years, the largest wave of Cuban migration has led to a notable increase in Cuban nationals residing in Mexico. This influx has coincided with a rise in violence, kidnappings, and extortion targeting these immigrants.
Just last June, a 35-year-old Cuban named Yunier B. D. was shot in the early hours at a hotel in Tulum, Yucatán. Two masked men entered the hotel, found the victim's room, and shot him at least four times before fleeing. Though gravely injured, the Cuban survived, and authorities suspect this was an attempted execution linked to organized crime.
Understanding the Risks for Cuban Immigrants in Mexico
What measures are being taken to ensure justice for the victims in Hidalgo?
The Hidalgo State Attorney General's Office is leading the investigation into the triple homicide, but no arrests have been made yet. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the attackers.
How are Cuban immigrants in Mexico affected by violence?
Cuban immigrants in Mexico face increasing risks of violence, including attacks, kidnappings, and extortion, particularly as their numbers grow amid the largest migration wave from Cuba in recent years.
What support is available for families of victims like Héctor Jorge Ramos Torres?
Families can seek support through community and social media networks to assist with repatriation and related expenses. In Ramos' case, influencer Niover Licea is helping coordinate donations for repatriation.