Two elderly individuals lost their lives, and a young girl was hospitalized following a collision on Saturday night in La Palma, a municipality in Pinar del Río. This tragic incident was reported by the platform NiO Reporting a Crime on social media, with verification from community members.
According to the report, the deceased were riding a motorcycle when they were struck by a tourist car. Both adults succumbed to their injuries from the impact. The young girl involved was taken to a hospital, though her current condition remains undisclosed.
Community members who commented on the post identified the victims as Aleida Alfonso and Julio Pajón, affectionately known in the area as "Julito Pajón." Dennys Carballo, a local resident, confirmed their identities, stating, "Aleida Alfonso and Julito Pajón are the victims; they were my neighbors from La Mulata."
Another commenter, Marta Válido, pinpointed the accident's location: "It happened in front of the meteorology station near CPA La Ceja. God willing, the girl recovers swiftly."
The tragic loss deeply affected those who knew the victims. "My friend Julio was a very special person," mourned Noel Almora. Elizabeth Santos expressed her sorrow, saying, "This news left me very sad. I knew Julito well; he was a humble man, and though I didn't know his wife, I also feel deeply for her."
NiO Reporting a Crime mentioned that the car's driver might be a local resident's brother and allegedly drove while intoxicated. However, this detail awaits official confirmation during the investigation.
Growing Road Safety Concerns in Cuba
This incident adds to Cuba's ongoing road safety crisis. In 2025, there were 7,538 accidents, resulting in 750 fatalities and over 6,700 injuries. The first quarter of 2026 alone saw 153 road deaths. Motorcycles are involved in over 52% of traffic incidents, accounting for 32% of the fatalities and 42% of injuries.
Pinar del Río has witnessed other recent road tragedies. Late in September, a hit-and-run left a family seeking justice, and earlier that month, a woman died, and seven others were injured in another accident on the island.
Understanding Cuba's Traffic Challenges
What caused the accident in La Palma, Pinar del Río?
The accident occurred when a tourist car collided with a motorcycle carrying two elderly individuals and a young girl. The driver of the car is suspected to have been intoxicated.
How significant is the road safety issue in Cuba?
Road safety is a growing concern in Cuba, with thousands of accidents annually. In 2025, there were over 7,500 accidents, leading to 750 deaths, and motorcycles are a major part of these statistics.