Tragic Incident: Man Dies in Santiago de Cuba Following Vicious Attack While on Bread Run

In Santiago de Cuba, another life has been claimed by violence.

In the early hours of November 26, Alfredo Elegido was viciously attacked as he embarked on his usual morning routine of collecting the state-rationed bread. This horrific incident took place on Patria Avenue, near the Soto Alley and the Mariana Grajales Housing Complex, a notoriously dark and unprotected area.

The initial report of this violent assault on a citizen was made by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada. Soon after, neighbors and friends confirmed via social media that the victim had succumbed to the injuries sustained in the attack.

A witness stated, "If he's with the forensics, it's because he died, he was my neighbor," while another resident noted that "it was three stab wounds" that ended his life.

A Routine of Community Spirit

Contrary to initial beliefs, Alfredo Elegido was not a baker; he was an engineer and lay judge, actively engaged with his community. Friends revealed that his early morning trips were not solely for his bread but also for that of several neighbors.

"He didn't sell bread; he went to collect the bread for himself and some neighbors, he always did that," explained an online commenter.

Another added, "He collected the bread, had breakfast, and went to work. He didn't look for trouble or bother anyone." Unfortunately, this familiar routine was shattered by violence.

Despite being well-known in his community for his humble and helpful nature, he was attacked without warning. The assault occurred in an area lacking lighting, an issue residents have repeatedly brought to attention.

"The entire Patria Avenue has been dark for days," wrote one woman. "Imagine, things happen with electricity; in the dark, it's worse," she added.

Community in Mourning

The untimely death of Alfredo has sparked a wave of collective grief and outrage. Many residents expressed their sorrow over his loss and highlighted his admirable character.

"He had such a big heart that I'm at a loss for words," mourned Daulit León, a family friend.

Comments poured in, such as “He saw me grow up, saw my children too, I still can't believe it. Rest in Peace”; “Alfre, what pain for all of us who love you”; “Rest in Peace, my good friend, my condolences to the family”; “Rest in Peace, an educated, humble, and principled man”; “A very good man and neighbor, very helpful,” and more.

A close friend further emphasized, "The government and relevant institutions must take strong action against these criminals. That man was a wonderful human being and an impeccable worker."

Outrage and Fear

The murder of Alfredo has once again highlighted the rising insecurity in Santiago de Cuba, especially during nighttime.

Outrage has been met with demands for accountability from the state and law enforcement. One woman harshly summarized the collective sentiment: "This is a jungle."

Many comments pointed to the lack of street lighting as a key factor enabling such crimes. Some even suggested that the perpetrators were local residents. "The ones who did it are from right there," noted a commenter, hinting at local criminals operating with impunity.

Calls for justice have intensified: "Let the full force of the law fall on those murderers who seem to have no family," "Those criminals deserve life sentences," "If they kill, let them be killed too or executed, and you'll see how this changes."

The tragic death of Alfredo Elegido is not just an individual loss but a symptom of a society deeply fractured by insecurity, economic crisis, lack of public resources, and absence of effective justice.