The vessel involved in Wednesday's armed clash in Cuban waters was part of a private flotilla organized to evacuate family members from the island, according to information published by The New York Times.
An American official informed the publication that a civilian boat registered in the United States, which was part of the flotilla, was involved in the shooting aimed at extracting relatives from Cuba.
The official further clarified that the boat was not part of either the U.S. Navy or the Coast Guard.
Initially reported by Cuba's Ministry of the Interior, the incident resulted in four fatalities and several injuries following a shootout with Border Guard Troops near Cayo Falcones in Villa Clara province.
The identities of the victims have not been officially released at this time.
Meanwhile, the specialized site The Maritime Executive provided technical details about the vessel identified by registration FL7726SH. According to this source, U.S. records indicate it is a Pro-Line boat constructed in 1981, with hull number 00916.
The term Pro-Line refers to an American manufacturer of sport and fishing boats founded in Florida, recognized for small to medium-sized vessels.
The "center-console" description indicates that the command console is centrally located on the hull, with walkways on both sides—a typical design for fast recreational or fishing boats in the state.
The Maritime Executive notes that this model type generally measures between 21 and 24 feet in length, with historical catalogs listing center-console versions at 20, 23, and 24 feet.
Documents and analyses cited by Hunterbrook, a U.S.-based analysis and research firm, agree that this is likely a fast boat approximately 24 feet long, registered in Florida.
The combination of these elements underscores that it is a civilian recreational boat rather than a military or security vessel.
The case remains under scrutiny by U.S. authorities as more details about the incident and the identities of the deceased are awaited.
Details on the Incident Involving the Flotilla in Cuban Waters
What was the purpose of the flotilla involved in the shooting?
The flotilla was organized to evacuate family members from Cuba, as reported by The New York Times.
What type of boat was involved in the incident?
The boat was a Pro-Line, a type of sport and fishing boat, constructed in 1981, and registered in Florida.
Who reported the initial details of the shooting?
The initial report of the incident was provided by Cuba's Ministry of the Interior.