Known fondly as "Pablito" by those around him, Pablo Vega left his home at four in the morning to stand in line at the bank. It was his only way to collect a 2,800 Cuban pesos pension, barely enough for his medication and a bit of food. Unfortunately, hours later, he returned home battered and did not survive the ordeal.
The elderly man, who spent over three decades working at Acopio, had lost his vision due to diabetes. Despite this, he faced daily challenges with dignity. He lived alone, but his siblings and relatives ensured he was never left without support.
Last Friday, as detailed in a social media post by Kiryat Poey, while waiting for his turn to collect his pension, several young men noticed him in line. Instead of respecting his vulnerability as a blind, elderly man, they brutally attacked him and stole the little money he had.
Pablo managed to make it back to his residence on Caridad Street, between Princesa and Aranguren, in Cárdenas. His sisters rushed him to medical attention immediately. Nonetheless, he later succumbed to the injuries inflicted during the assault.
Outrage has swiftly spread among neighbors and on social media, with numerous comments reflecting a mix of grief, anger, and a profound sense of insecurity. Common sentiments include "It's no longer safe to go out," "Elderly people are unprotected," and "Violence is out of control."
Adding to the family's distress, relatives confirmed that after his passing, Pablo's body remained at home for over five hours awaiting funeral services, as they were informed that no transportation was available to collect the body, exacerbating the frustration among friends and family.
In Cárdenas, fear and frustration are mounting as many describe an increase in violence against vulnerable individuals.
Up to now, there has been no official report on the arrest of those allegedly responsible for this heinous act.
Meanwhile, neighbors and family mourn a humble man who simply sought to collect his pension at dawn, only to pay with his life.
Community Reaction to Violence in Cárdenas
What happened to Pablo Vega in Cárdenas?
Pablo Vega was assaulted while waiting in line at the bank to collect his pension. He was attacked by a group of young men who stole his money, and he subsequently died from his injuries.
How have people reacted to the incident?
The incident has sparked outrage and concern among the community and on social media, with many expressing grief, anger, and a sense of insecurity regarding the increasing violence against vulnerable individuals.
Has there been any action taken against the attackers?
As of now, there has been no official statement about the arrest or identification of the individuals responsible for the attack on Pablo Vega.