Mother and Stepfather Charged with Homicide in Death of Matanzas Child

The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) in Cuba has arrested the mother and stepfather of two-year-old Roberto Carlos Suárez Machado following confirmation of their involvement in the abuse that led to the child's tragic death last Saturday. Both individuals are now facing criminal charges for homicide.

Local newspaper Girón reported that the young boy was admitted to the Eliseo Noel Caamaño Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas on July 16, presenting with septic shock, multiple bruises, and clear signs of physical trauma. Despite receiving intensive care and undergoing surgery, Roberto Carlos passed away at 6:05 a.m. on Saturday.

Authorities from MININT revealed that the child was frequently subjected to beatings by both the mother and stepfather, with the most recent and fatal assault allegedly perpetrated by the stepfather. As the investigation progresses, both remain in custody as evidence is gathered for court proceedings.

The case has ignited widespread outrage among residents of Matanzas and social media users, who demand justice for the young victim. This incident has become one of the most disturbing cases of child abuse to shock the Cuban population in recent years.

Officials emphasized that such incidents are not indicative of everyday life in Cuban society and reiterated the government's commitment to safeguarding children. A formal statement assured that the case would be prosecuted under the stringent Cuban Penal Code, which imposes severe penalties for crimes against minors.

Amidst the uproar, it was clarified that the biological father of the child is in Uruguay—not Mexico, as previously misreported—and has been unable to return to Cuba due to travel restrictions, even through humanitarian channels like the Red Cross. Those close to the father describe him as devastated and assert that he provided for his child to the best of his ability.

The Eliseo Noel Caamaño Pediatric Hospital confirmed that Roberto Carlos Suárez Machado succumbed to his injuries after being admitted with clear signs of physical abuse. According to the state-run media outlet Girón, protocols for child protection were activated amid suspicions of infanticide by the mother, named Amarilis, who resides in the Naranjal neighborhood.

Dr. Anaelis Santana Álvarez, the hospital's director, explained to the newspaper that the child was brought in on Wednesday, July 16, at midday by his mother, following the concern of a neighbor. The neighbor had observed that the child appeared lethargic and in poor condition, reportedly having been in this state for over 24 hours according to his mother.

Upon arrival, Roberto Carlos was critically ill: lethargic, feverish, experiencing respiratory difficulties, and bearing visible trauma marks, including several bruises. Medical staff immediately admitted him to the intensive care unit. An initial diagnosis suggested septic shock, but further complications arose. The child's distended abdomen prompted imaging studies that revealed internal perforations.

Surgery was performed, but stabilization was never achieved, and the child passed away at 6:05 a.m. on Saturday, July 19. In light of the apparent abuse, hospital staff promptly contacted MININT's child services, who responded and initiated an investigation.

Dr. Santana emphasized the legal obligation for medical practitioners to report any cases of suspected child abuse to authorities. “We are mandated to witness by our profession,” she stated. “In this instance, the child had noticeable bruises.”

The local media highlighted Cuba’s legal framework, which prioritizes the protection of children as a fundamental principle. Article 5 of the Family Code mandates that families are the primary guarantors of minors' rights and safety, with any violations subject to strict judicial penalties.