A 17-year-old Cuban teenager was tragically killed on Saturday night following a violent altercation in Cienfuegos, as reported by friends on social media. The victim, identified as Raúl Artiz Suárez del Villar, lost his life while attempting to defend a friend, according to a comment on a Facebook post.
A video shared by user Ernesto Alfaro highlights different moments from Raúl's life. The tribute was accompanied by heartfelt messages: "Rest in peace, my little guy. May God grant you a beautiful place. Fly high, my little guy."
Other comments revealed that Raúl's murder took place in an area known as La Plaza in the capital city of Cienfuegos. "No one prepared us for this. I don't know who decided you could leave; you had so much more to live for, my angel. May God keep you in his glory. You were a brother, a friend, and part of our family. We always loved you like that, and we had so much more to enjoy with you," wrote Aimy Del Sol.
Another individual shared photos with the slain teenager, expressing deep sorrow: "My child, you are loved so much, and everyone knows what a great person you were. You didn't deserve what happened. Words can't describe the immense pain I feel; you were the beloved kid in the neighborhood, and everyone adored you. You'll always be in the hearts of those who truly care about you."
Rising Concern Over Youth Violence in Cuba
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for initiatives and actions to curb the escalating violence among young people in Cuba.
In a similar incident last September, a 21-year-old was murdered in San Germán, Holguín Province. José Manuel Martínez was brutally killed on the night of September 6 during a robbery where his bicycle and cell phone were stolen. The perpetrator later confessed, saying he was desperate for money and José just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Another shocking event that rattled the Cuban community was the murder of a 30-year-old in Havana. Enmanuel Rosales, originally from Ciego de Ávila and residing in the capital, was stabbed near the Terminal de Ómnibus in Plaza de la Revolución as he headed home to Cojímar. Social media reports indicate that the motive was robbery, with his cell phone and money being stolen. Enmanuel was an employee at a hotel in El Vedado.