A tragic incident occurred in Santiago de Cuba's Segundo Frente municipality, where a 23-year-old man was instantly killed after being struck by a tourist service vehicle. The car lost control on a treacherous downhill section of the road as the young man attempted to merge onto the main road from Loma Blanca.
Known in his community for his reserved nature and expertise in motor repair, the victim had stopped his motorcycle to enter the main road when the collision happened, according to local sources who did not specify the exact date of the tragic event.
The crash was so severe that it left no room for evasive action, as reported by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada on his Facebook profile.
According to the report, the vehicle involved was carrying two men and a woman who allegedly fled the scene. Residents speculate that they were transporting "unauthorized goods," a common practice in the rural black market.
Their escape has fueled further outrage in a community already plagued by frequent accidents on that same stretch of road.
The young man's father, who was traveling to Havana at the time, returned upon receiving the devastating news. His son was set to celebrate his birthday on November 19, a future tragically cut short on a road whose lack of maintenance and oversight has once again been highlighted, Mayeta emphasized.
Neighbors and friends have expressed their sorrow and demand for justice, while they await official actions to clarify the circumstances and assign responsibility.
Earlier in November, another accident claimed the life of Joel Milera Barceló, affectionately known as "El Miller," near the Hermanos Ameijeiras hospital on Havana’s Malecón. He was well-regarded for his skill in fixing electric motorcycle batteries.
Additionally, on October 21, a motorcyclist died in a head-on collision with a horse-drawn cart in Havana's Guanabacoa municipality.
The latest report from the National Road Safety Commission indicated that motorcycles and mopeds are involved in 52% of traffic incidents in Cuba, accounting for 32% of fatalities and 42% of injuries.
From January to August this year, 502 people have lost their lives in traffic accidents across Cuba, a figure representing 80% of the total deaths caused by such incidents in 2024, suggesting an alarming rise in road-related mortality.
Understanding Road Safety Challenges in Cuba
What caused the accident in Segundo Frente, Santiago de Cuba?
The accident was caused by a tourist service vehicle losing control on a dangerous slope, hitting a young man who was trying to merge onto the main road.
Why did the occupants of the vehicle flee the scene?
Residents speculate that the occupants fled because they were carrying unauthorized goods, which is a common illicit practice in the area.
How has the community reacted to the accident?
The community is outraged and has expressed their sorrow and demand for justice, especially because this is a recurring issue in the same area.