Agustín Maceo Perdomo, affectionately known as "Pacolo," succumbed to his injuries on Monday night after battling a critical condition for several days. He was struck while riding his motor scooter in the early hours of May 1st in Santiago de Cuba.
Numerous sources have pointed to Juan Guillermo Almeida, familiarly called JG, as the driver responsible for the collision. JG is the son of the late Revolutionary Commander Juan Almeida Bosque.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada verified Agustín's death on Tuesday through social media, where he had also reported the initial accident. The incident has stirred significant outrage in Santiago de Cuba amid concerns about potential legal accountability.
Eyewitness accounts describe how Agustín was violently hit while on his motor scooter, leaving the vehicle almost completely demolished.
Following the accident, Agustín appeared uninjured and engaged in conversation with the other party, seemingly attempting to settle the matter. He later visited Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital, claiming he had fallen rather than disclosing the vehicular accident. After routine examinations, he returned home.
However, the situation took a drastic turn hours later. Agustín awoke disoriented, incoherent, and experiencing seizures. He was rushed back to the hospital, diagnosed with a cerebral hemorrhage, and admitted in critical condition.
Despite medical efforts, Agustín's condition deteriorated. He was declared brain dead and passed away on Monday night.
Reports suggest Agustín declined monetary compensation, opting instead for the repair of his damaged scooter as a settlement. He leaves behind a grieving young family, including a small daughter and a young wife. Friends and neighbors remember him as the "pillar of the household," the family's main provider.
Two differing accounts of the accident have emerged: one directly implicates JG as the driver, while another states only his vehicle was involved. Official confirmation or denial from Cuban authorities is still pending.
Local residents report that JG and his associates were frequently present at the hospital during Agustín's critical days. An anonymous nurse from Saturnino Lora disclosed that State Security is monitoring the situation, perceived by some as an effort to control information rather than seek justice.
Social media discussions highlight a perceived pattern of impunity. Commentators recall a similar incident allegedly involving JG in Mayabeque about 15 years ago, which resulted in no legal repercussions.
JG, a musician known for salsa and reggaeton, operates several businesses in Santiago de Cuba and maintains close ties with the regime's structures. In August 2025, he was appointed to officially close the summer season in Cuba with performances in Guantánamo and Mayabeque.
The accident took place at the intersection of 2nd and Escario streets in the Santa Bárbara neighborhood, referred to by locals as "the corner of death." On the same day, May 1st, young doctor Thalía Milagros Mariño Recouso tragically died in the same area after being struck by a car while on a motorcycle.
This incident occurs amid a backdrop of high traffic accident rates: Cuba reported 750 fatalities from traffic accidents in 2025, with 7,538 total accidents and 6,718 injuries, according to the National Road Safety Commission.
"It's not about last names. It's not about power. It's about a lost life. And no life should be worth less than a last name," wrote Mayeta Labrada, confirming the death of Agustín Maceo Perdomo.
Key Questions Surrounding the Santiago de Cuba Accident
Who was Agustín Maceo Perdomo?
Agustín Maceo Perdomo, known as "Pacolo," was a resident of Santiago de Cuba who died after being struck while riding his motor scooter.
What are the allegations against Juan Guillermo Almeida?
Juan Guillermo Almeida, also known as JG, is alleged to have been the driver who struck Agustín Maceo Perdomo. However, there are conflicting reports about his direct involvement.
What was the outcome of the accident for Agustín Maceo Perdomo?
Despite initial indications that he was uninjured, Agustín later suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and was declared brain dead, passing away shortly thereafter.