A relative of a victim injured in a fireworks explosion during the Guayos festival in Sancti Spíritus on early Saturday morning has disclosed details about the tragic event that resulted in six injuries, two of whom are in critical condition.
Yohan Piñeiro Santana, aged 36, was observing the fireworks display when the explosion occurred. He suffered burns on his face, arms, and feet, leaving him critically injured, according to his father's wife, who spoke to Martí Noticias but wished to remain anonymous.
"The firefighters put out the flames on him," she emphasized. "He is currently in a critical state."
Details of the Explosive Incident
The explosion happened around five in the morning in the designated fireworks area in La Loma neighborhood, near the local Casa de Cultura in the Cabaiguán municipality. The relative noted that despite knowing the risks, individuals still ventured into the danger zone, drawn by tradition.
Piñeiro was not actively involved in launching fireworks but was an onlooker, enjoying the spectacle from a close distance. The explosion reportedly occurred when a firework landed in a sack of mortars, leading to a massive detonation.
Medical Condition and Response
Despite recognizing people around him, Piñeiro is unaware of the severity of his injuries. He and another young man have been identified as the most critically affected. The identities of the other victims, all men between the ages of 30 and 50, remain undisclosed.
The latest medical update from Sancti Spíritus officials reported that, besides the two critically injured, two others are in serious condition, another is stable, and a sixth is receiving outpatient care at the Hospital Provincial Camilo Cienfuegos.
Dr. Tatiana Hernández González, a specialist in Plastic Surgery and Burn Treatment, stated that those hospitalized are suffering from multiple traumatic injuries, burns, and wounds requiring various medical interventions. They are receiving care in isolated units under a multidisciplinary team including anesthesiologists and surgical specialists.
The hospital is equipped with necessary supplies and creams for treating these injuries.
Investigation and Historical Context
The Ministry of the Interior is currently investigating the cause of the explosion. The Guayos festival, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, celebrated its centennial this year. Originally scheduled for early November, it was postponed due to economic, health, and social concerns following Hurricane Melissa's devastation and an ongoing epidemiological crisis.
Firework-related incidents are not uncommon in Cuban festivals. In 2018, two men suffered severe burns during the Camajuaní festivities, and in 2017, a fire at a fireworks storage site in Remedios injured 39 people, eight critically.
Key Questions About the Guayos Explosion Incident
What caused the explosion at the Guayos festival?
The explosion occurred when a firework landed in a sack of mortars, causing a significant detonation in the designated fireworks area.
Who is Yohan Piñeiro Santana?
Yohan Piñeiro Santana is a 36-year-old man who was critically injured in the explosion, suffering burns on his face, arms, and feet while observing the fireworks display.
How are the injured being treated?
The injured individuals are receiving care in isolated hospital units, managed by a multidisciplinary team, with treatments including sutures, deep venous access, and other procedures for burn and trauma injuries.