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New Developments in Cienfuegos Double Murder: Third Suspect Identified

Saturday, July 12, 2025 by Albert Rivera

New Developments in Cienfuegos Double Murder: Third Suspect Identified
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Investigations into the horrific murder of two young individuals in Cienfuegos on June 29 are continuing to uncover new leads and identities. Recently, the pro-government platform "Las cosas de Fernanda," which has been following the case closely, disclosed the identity of another suspected perpetrator. Efforts are intensifying to apprehend this individual and another suspect who remain at large. The third person involved has been identified as Ernesto Iznaga Rodríguez.

A Shocking Crime in Cienfuegos

The incident, which took place in the early hours near the "El 24" bar in Cienfuegos, escalated from an argument into a violent altercation resulting in a double homicide. The victims, Lester Leal and Luardys Agulle Jiménez, were viciously attacked while with family, including a pregnant woman and a child who also suffered injuries. Eyewitness accounts on social media suggest that the conflict began inside the bar, fueled by alcohol, and spilled onto the street, where the tragedy unfolded. Luardys was discovered dead at the scene, while Lester succumbed to his injuries at a hospital shortly thereafter.

Anger intensified when family members publicly criticized the delayed response from police and the transportation of the deceased, stating they were told there was "no fuel" to retrieve the body. This complaint further exacerbated public outrage, already inflamed by the crime's brutality.

Suspects Identified: One Apprehended

In the aftermath, "Las cosas de Fernanda" confirmed the capture of Yoslayny de la Rosa Rodríguez, who owned a Jagua motorcycle. While De la Rosa Rodríguez did not physically assault the victims, he facilitated the escape of the attackers by transporting them away from the scene on his motorcycle, thereby implicating him as an accomplice. The motorcycle has been seized and is likely to be confiscated.

Direct Involvement Clarified

Investigations have identified Emmanuel Alberto Rodríguez García, also known as “El Chivero,” and Ernesto Iznaga Rodríguez as the direct assailants. Both are alleged to have physically attacked the victims during the deadly confrontation. Although it remains unclear which of the two delivered the fatal blows, both are deemed principal perpetrators. According to public accounts, El Chivero and Iznaga are believed to be in hiding together to evade arrest.

Additionally, several arrests have been made for complicity in concealing the crime. Individuals who were aware of the incident or aided the suspects may face charges under laws penalizing silence or complicity in severe crimes.

Community Reaction and Justice Demands

The murders of Lester and Luardys have sparked considerable grief and outrage within the community. Friends, neighbors, and family have taken to social media to express their sorrow, sharing photos of the deceased and particularly of Luardys' funeral, accompanied by messages like “we are all shattered” and calls for justice. The emotional impact of the case has reignited discussions about public safety and perceived impunity in Cuba, even as official reports of trials for extreme violence and drug-related offenses have increased.

Despite this, a growing segment of the Cuban populace is advocating for the reinstatement of the death penalty for such heinous crimes.

Key Questions about the Cienfuegos Double Murder

Who are the main suspects in the Cienfuegos double murder case?

The primary suspects are Emmanuel Alberto Rodríguez García, known as “El Chivero,” and Ernesto Iznaga Rodríguez, who are believed to have directly attacked the victims.

What role did Yoslayny de la Rosa Rodríguez play in the crime?

Yoslayny de la Rosa Rodríguez did not physically assault the victims but facilitated the escape of the attackers by transporting them on his motorcycle, making him an accomplice.

How has the community responded to the murders?

The community has reacted with deep sorrow and anger, with social media filled with messages of mourning and demands for justice.

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