A dramatic traffic accident on Thursday afternoon jolted the historic heart of Santiago de Cuba, occurring at the bustling intersection of San Félix and San Jerónimo streets. Witnesses report that the incident unfolded as the driver of an electric tricycle attempted to flee from a motorized officer of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), who was in hot pursuit.
As the chase intensified, the driver lost control, violently crashing into a Peugeot car with the license plate P240698, causing both vehicles to overturn in the street. "It was like a movie, man. The noise was incredible and everyone started running," a local resident told independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, who shared images and footage of the event on Facebook, captured by a security camera.
The video reveals the chaos post-collision, with the overturned vehicles, numerous onlookers recording the scene on their phones, and law enforcement agents struggling to manage the situation. Quick to respond, neighbors and passersby rushed to assist those involved. So far, no injuries have been reported, although local authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or the identities of those involved.
This accident has left many residents of Santiago noticeably shaken, highlighting once again the rising number of traffic accidents in the eastern city, where narrow streets and deteriorating road conditions make driving perilous.
Police Pursuits Leading to Accidents in Cuba
Although not frequent, Cuba has witnessed several accidents in recent years caused by police chases, where drivers attempting to evade PNR officers lose control of their vehicles. In August 2023, a young man in Camagüey was injured following a motorcycle police chase, colliding with another vehicle during his escape.
In December 2022, a pursuit involving a car loaded with beef ended in a crash after an intense chase by PNR patrols. Similarly, in January 2020, a tourist vehicle driver crashed in Sancti Spíritus while trying to avoid a police checkpoint, resulting in significant material damage.
These incidents underscore a troubling trend where attempts to flee police operations result in crashes or rollovers, posing risks to those involved and pedestrians alike.
Key Questions on Police Chases and Accidents in Cuba
What caused the accident in Santiago de Cuba?
The accident was caused by a high-speed police chase, during which the driver of an electric tricycle lost control and collided with a Peugeot vehicle.
Are police chases common in Cuba?
While not common, there have been several notable incidents in recent years where police chases have resulted in traffic accidents.
What are the risks associated with police chases in Cuba?
Police chases in Cuba can lead to crashes or rollovers, posing significant risks to the drivers involved, law enforcement officers, and pedestrians.