Miguel Díaz-Canel, the leader of Cuba, has expressed his shock and dismay over the recent traffic accidents that took place in the provinces of Matanzas and Ciego de Ávila this past weekend. "We are deeply moved by the tragic traffic accidents in Matanzas and Ciego de Ávila. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims during this challenging time. We are closely monitoring the care provided to the injured and their families," Díaz-Canel stated on X, while attending the BRICS Summit in Brazil.
Tragedy at Varadero Toll Booth
On Saturday, a horrific accident at the Varadero toll booth claimed the lives of two individuals when their car crashed at high speed into the toll's barrier. Rubén Lantigua, a United States resident originally from Corralillo, Villa Clara, and Amanda Naranjo Pino, originally from Perico and residing in Cantel, were tragically killed in the collision. While local reports suggested that Rubén was 69 years old, sources close to CiberCuba clarified that Lantigua was 33 and Amanda Naranjo was 30, leaving behind a young daughter.
Contrary to social media speculation, sources close to Rubén Lantigua emphasized that he did not consume alcohol, dismissing rumors that he was intoxicated at the time of the crash. The accident occurred around 5:40 pm as the vehicle, traveling from Varadero towards Boca de Camarioca, lost control and violently struck the toll's masonry divider near the payment booth.
Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle was speeding when it hit the toll structure, causing such an impact that it became airborne, split in two upon landing, and one part caught fire, resulting in an explosion visible from several locations in the vicinity. Sandra Loureiro, the director of the National Road Center, confirmed that the burning section of the car rolled towards the toll booth area.
Fatal Accident in Ciego de Ávila
In another tragic incident on Sunday, a devastating accident occurred in the Majagua municipality of Ciego de Ávila province. Preliminary reports indicate that four people lost their lives, and 32 were injured, with four individuals, including a child, in critical condition facing life-threatening injuries.
This tragedy unfolded in the morning when a state-owned vehicle, belonging to the Hydraulic Resources Company and registered as B-236623, overturned on the Río Grande stretch between Marroquín and Majagua. The vehicle, carrying multiple passengers, lost control, leading to the disastrous outcome.
Understanding the Impact of Recent Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What were the causes of the weekend traffic accidents in Cuba?
The accidents were primarily caused by loss of vehicle control. In Varadero, a car crashed into a toll barrier at high speed, while in Ciego de Ávila, a state-owned vehicle overturned on a road stretch.
How did Díaz-Canel respond to the accidents?
Díaz-Canel expressed his condolences to the victims' families and emphasized the importance of monitoring the care for those injured during these tragic events.
What was the aftermath of the Varadero accident?
The Varadero accident resulted in a car splitting in two, with one part catching fire, causing an explosion that was visible across a broad area.
How many casualties were reported in the Ciego de Ávila accident?
The Ciego de Ávila accident resulted in four fatalities and 32 injuries, with four individuals in critical condition, including a child.