A young street vendor, identified as Yaidamis Haití Ruiz, tragically lost her life on Thursday night after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Prado and Malecón, directly in front of the Hotel Paseo del Prado. Witnesses report that Ruiz, originally from Guantánamo, was attempting to cross the street when she was first hit by a car making a U-turn, followed by a passenger Gazelle vehicle, leading to her instantaneous death.
Ruiz's body was taken to the morgue at Calixto García Hospital. Initial reports suggested that her family in Guantánamo faced challenges in reaching Havana to claim her remains. However, subsequent updates clarified that her siblings were present in Havana to manage the necessary arrangements, correcting earlier misinformation spread after the accident.
This tragic event occurred in a bustling area with heavy traffic flow along Havana's seafront. As of the latest update, there are no official statements regarding the identities of the drivers involved, the causes of the dual collision, or potential legal actions related to the incident.
Rising Concerns Over Traffic Accidents in Cuba
This incident once again highlights the alarming frequency of traffic accidents in Cuba, a significant public safety issue that has resulted in numerous severe incidents on major roads and tourist areas of the capital.
In a related tragedy last August, Mairovis Valier Heredia, aged 35, died after being hit by a car driven by a foreigner in Havana. Valier Heredia left behind three children and was the sole fatality in this unusual accident, about which very few official details have been released. Her mother shared a poignant story on social media, revealing that Valier Heredia had recently traveled from Guantánamo to support her son, who had enrolled in the "Camilitos" program.
FAQs About Traffic Accidents in Havana
What led to the recent accident involving Yaidamis Haití Ruiz?
Yaidamis Haití Ruiz was struck while crossing the street by a car making a U-turn, followed by a passenger Gazelle vehicle.
Are there any updates on the investigation of the accident?
As of now, there is no official information about the drivers' identities, the causes of the accident, or any legal proceedings related to the case.
How does this incident reflect the broader issue of road safety in Cuba?
The incident underscores the ongoing problem of frequent traffic accidents in Cuba, highlighting the need for improved road safety measures in high-traffic and tourist areas.