A devastating traffic accident on the Siboney road in Santiago de Cuba has tragically claimed the life of a 15-year-old girl and left several others injured.
The incident occurred at the La Guásima hill, an area notorious for its steep incline and recognized danger by local residents.
The vehicle involved was carrying multiple passengers, including minors.
Eyewitnesses, as reported by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, stated that the driver suddenly lost control of the car, which "plummeted down the hill, rolling over multiple times."
Described as a chaotic scene, the accident left the occupants exposed to a violent and disordered impact. The exact number of injured individuals remains unclear.
Two teenagers were seated in the front of the vehicle. Yoselin Galán, just 15 years old, was rushed to the nearest hospital in critical condition.
"As doctors prepared for surgery, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away shortly after," reported Mayeta Labrada.
Her companion was also injured, but no additional fatalities have been reported so far.
According to preliminary information, passengers in the back of the car did not sustain serious injuries.
Uncertainty Surrounds the Driver and Unclear Causes
The driver, identified by the community as "Negrín," reportedly jumped from the vehicle as it began its uncontrollable descent down the hill.
The driver's status remains uncertain. While local rumors suggest he is either critically injured or dead, "a very close source states he is in custody under investigation," the journalist clarified.
However, there is yet to be any official confirmation from authorities.
The cause of the accident has not been clarified by the competent agencies. Witnesses, however, point to a mechanical failure as the trigger. "The vehicle suffered a steering failure, causing it to go out of control down the hill," recounted one witness.
Road Safety Questioned
The accident has sparked widespread consternation in the eastern province, reigniting a longstanding and painful debate over the technical condition of vehicles on Cuban roads. Many are old, modified, poorly maintained, and lack proper technical oversight.
In high-slope areas like La Guásima hill, the risks are amplified.
Residents of Santiago de Cuba are once again questioning road safety and the responsibility of drivers, as well as the lack of technical control over transportation methods. These combined factors create a setting ripe for tragedies like the one recently experienced.
Common Questions About the Accident in Santiago de Cuba
What caused the accident in Santiago de Cuba?
Witnesses suggest a mechanical failure, specifically a steering issue, caused the vehicle to lose control and roll down the hill.
Who was involved in the accident?
The accident involved a vehicle carrying multiple passengers, including minors, and resulted in the death of 15-year-old Yoselin Galán.
What is known about the driver?
The driver, known as "Negrín," reportedly jumped from the vehicle as it lost control and is currently believed to be under investigation, though his exact condition is unknown.