The family of Michel Ortega Casanova, one of the Cubans reportedly killed in a confrontation with Cuban border guards off the coast of Corralillo, Villa Clara, is demanding the repatriation of his body to the United States for a respectful burial.
Gathering in Tampa, Michel's daughter, wife, and brother joined other Cuban exiles to mourn and honor his life and values, while challenging the official narrative put forth by the Castro regime.
Daily Ortega González, his daughter who is eight and a half months pregnant, tearfully told Telemundo 51, "All I want is for them to give him back to me. To hold a wake and give him the farewell he deserves. My dad was an impeccable man. He lived for his daughter, his family, his home."
She further expressed pain over her father being labeled a terrorist: "He only wanted his grandchildren in Cuba, all four of them, to have a better life… But he never wanted to harm anyone, I'm sure of it, because my dad was an honest man."
Ivelisse Alisea, Michel's wife, expressed gratitude for the support shown during the tribute: "Thanks to everyone who has supported us in one way or another. Your love for my husband has been immense."
According to Telemundo 51, the family reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Havana for assistance in repatriating Michel's remains but has yet to receive a response. Recovering his body would offer them some solace amidst profound grief and allow for a dignified farewell.
Michel's brother, Misael Ortega Casanova, criticized the Cuban government's account as unclear and inconsistent, calling for an independent investigation.
"Let there be an investigation, let the steps be taken. As someone said, lies can run for a long time but will eventually be caught by the truth. And since the truth is on our side, it will speak louder than any narrative the Cuban government wants to impose," he remarked.
He reiterated that the family has not received information from federal or state authorities but remains hopeful that the facts will come to light.
The somber gathering at Casa Cuba was marked by the sorrow and outrage of Michel's family and friends, who condemned the incident as a "massacre" and questioned the official story, calling for justice and transparency.
A Patriot, Not a Terrorist
Michel Ortega Casanova, a 54-year-old truck driver, had lived in the United States for over two decades and was an American citizen. He was a homeowner, married, and had two children—one residing in Spain and another in Lakeland. "Just an ordinary guy," they emphasized.
Casa Cuba in Tampa described him as "a patriot" and declared three days of mourning with flags at half-staff.
The Cuban Republican Party, of which Michel was a member, distanced itself from the actions of the 10 Cubans who set out on the boat from the United States. The organization emphasized that its mission is strictly political and does not endorse armed actions or control the individual decisions of its members. They confirmed Michel's affiliation but stated they were unaware of his intentions or involvement in the event.
The alleged conflict between the boat and Cuban Border Guard forces took place on Wednesday, February 25, at Cayo Falcones in the municipality of Corralillo, Villa Clara, northeast of El Pino channel. The Cuban Ministry of the Interior reported that most of the occupants had criminal and violent backgrounds in Cuba. A U.S. official noted that some had criminal records.
Understanding the Repatriation Process
Why is Michel Ortega's family demanding repatriation of his body?
The family wants to give Michel a respectful burial in the United States, where he spent over 20 years and built his life.
What challenges is the family facing in repatriating Michel's body?
They have contacted the U.S. Embassy in Havana for assistance but have not yet received a response, facing uncertainty and delays in the process.
How has the community responded to Michel Ortega's death?
The community, including Casa Cuba and the Cuban Republican Party, has shown support by honoring Michel's memory and calling for justice and transparency.