The case of Italian national Mario Pontolillo, charged with causing a multiple hit-and-run accident in Havana during the early hours of August 25, continues to stir public outrage in Cuba. This is not only due to the severity of the incident but also because of the accused's reputation, with some describing him as violent and troublesome.
Amidst widespread speculation, the mother of Pontolillo's daughter, who had a long-term relationship with him, shared her thoughts with journalist Mario J. Pentón in a brief phone interview. The woman, appearing evasive and taken aback by the situation, commented, "I'm at a loss for words."
The Ex-Partner's Perspective
Residing in Cienfuegos, the woman expressed her lack of information about the incident and claimed ignorance regarding her ex-partner’s current life. "I just found out; I don't know much about the case," she noted.
When asked about rumors labeling Pontolillo as violent or addicted to alcohol and drugs, she firmly denied these allegations: "No, no, that's not true at all."
"This is something new, and people will speculate a lot. You know how it is with social media," she added.
Life Separated from Pontolillo
"Alegna," as she is named, emphasized that she has not been in touch with Pontolillo since their separation and that her life is entirely separate from his. "I'm here in Cienfuegos; that happened in Havana. I'm, you know, detached from all that," she stated.
She reiterated that she lacks details about what happened and is also waiting for information. "I don't know, look, I live here, he's there, I don't know what he’s been up to, I really can't say anything. I'm just speechless," she concluded, maintaining her evasive demeanor.
While the young woman distances herself from the case, residents of Cienfuegos have painted a very different picture of the accused. They informed Pentón that Pontolillo had a history of violence and excessive alcohol consumption, which had caused conflicts in the past.
Claims of Self-Defense
Additionally, the sister of the sole fatality from the incident revealed to Pentón that a police officer told her Pontolillo claimed he was "threatened with death and chased," stating that he "went out to kill."
Prosecutor's Accusations
After over a week of silence and speculation, the Cuban regime finally disclosed the identity of the accused driver this past Thursday. The fatal accident on August 25 claimed the life of Mairovis Valier Heredia, a mother of three.
According to a statement from the General Prosecutor's Office, Pontolillo, aged 56 and a permanent resident on the island, remains in provisional detention with a travel ban. He is under investigation for a "deliberate hit-and-run" in the streets of Centro Habana and Habana Vieja.
The Prosecutor's Office assured that efforts are underway to complete the investigation and that penalties proportional to the severity of the incident will be sought. The lack of official information for days fueled rumors and suspicions of a cover-up, especially after an investigation by the media outlet 14ymedio initially pointed to another Italian businessman with close ties to the authorities.
Key Questions on the Havana Incident
Who is Mario Pontolillo?
Mario Pontolillo is an Italian national accused of causing a multiple hit-and-run accident in Havana on August 25.
What are the charges against Pontolillo?
Pontolillo is charged with a deliberate hit-and-run that resulted in the death of Mairovis Valier Heredia, under investigation by the Cuban authorities.
What has Pontolillo claimed in his defense?
Pontolillo has allegedly claimed that he was "threatened with death and chased," leading him to act in self-defense.