A tragic incident has struck the community of Carbonera in Matanzas as a 22-year-old Cuban man lost his life during a spearfishing excursion. The young man, remembered fondly by friends, family, and neighbors, was known for his calm demeanor and was cherished in his neighborhood.
Cardenas-based activist and chronicler Christian Arbolaez shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, revealing the victim's name as José Alberto. His body was later taken to the Faustino Pérez Provincial Hospital.
“José Alberto was just 22 years old. Those who knew him remember him as a laid-back young man from the neighborhood, a good person, one of those young people no one expects to say goodbye to so soon,” Arbolaez wrote.
He added, “Such a beautiful pastime like spearfishing has once again, unfortunately, shattered a family with the loss of a loved one.”
A Community Mourns
José was the son of Milagros, a well-known figure in the El Castillito community, also referred to as El Cerro. The news has sparked a flood of reactions from people who knew the young man, recalling his character and the close bond he shared with his community.
“José, words fail me. Since yesterday, I’ve been distraught. I saw you as a younger brother, a wonderful human being, an exceptional son, and friend. To all of us who knew you, you were and will always be that beautiful person worthy of remembering,” someone expressed.
Another person reminisced about watching him grow up: “José, the pain you’ve left us is immense. I saw you born and grow; you were raised in our block. We barely slept after hearing the news, thinking of you and your mother’s grief.”
The Impact of a Tragic Loss
The loss has deeply affected his family, with one particularly poignant reaction highlighting the personal impact: “Oh, my little brother, the pain you’ve left us. Your sister is devastated, and my mom doesn’t know what to do without you.”
Others emphasized the profound loss for his mother. “An excellent young man. Such sorrow for his mother, her only child. No mother should endure such pain. May God have him in His glory. Much strength,” another comment read.
Previous Spearfishing Tragedies
Spearfishing has been linked to other fatal incidents along the Cuban coastline. In September 2022, the body of 19-year-old spearfisher Hensley Boza was found in Matanzas after he disappeared near the province's northern coast. Authorities attributed his death to a blackout during a dive.
Another spearfisher, Dennis Batista Leyva, age 35, died in October 2025 in the El Sardinero area of Santiago de Cuba. He dove alone, and his body was later recovered by fellow fishermen.
A year before, Rafael Fernández lost his life while spearfishing in Playa Baracoa, Havana. After that tragedy, those close to him reiterated a fundamental safety tip among spearfishers: “Never fish alone.”
Understanding the Risks of Spearfishing in Cuba
What are some safety precautions for spearfishing?
It is crucial to never fish alone, always use a buddy system, be aware of your limits, and have the proper equipment like a dive flag and communication devices.
Why is spearfishing considered dangerous?
Spearfishing can be dangerous due to risks like shallow water blackouts, equipment failure, and underwater hazards. The physical demands and isolation can also contribute to accidents.