Fifth person dies after US speedboat shootout off Cuba
Cuban authorities have confirmed that a fifth crew member from a US-flagged speedboat has died following a shootout with the coast guard. The incident, which involved an exchange of gunfire, resulted in multiple fatalities and terrorism charges for the surviving crew. Officials allege the boat was attempting to smuggle weapons into Cuba. The investigation is ongoing, with cooperation from US authorities.
What we know
- The shootout happened on February 25 when a Cuban coast guard boat approached the US-flagged speedboat and was met with gunfire.
- Roberto Alvarez Avila, one of the survivors, died from his wounds on March 4, according to the interior ministry.
- Four other people aboard the speedboat were shot and killed by the Cuban coast guard during the incident.
- Prosecutors have filed terrorism charges against the surviving crew members, who are suspected of trying to bring weapons to Cuba.
- The investigation is progressing with evidence sharing and joint actions between Cuban and US authorities.
