The sole survivor of a tragic electric scooter explosion within a home in Regla, Havana, succumbed to his injuries on Saturday after a prolonged battle for survival in the hospital. Journalist Mario Vallejo confirmed on Facebook that 19-year-old Yordanis Javier Despaigne passed away due to the severe burns he sustained.
The devastating incident took place last Saturday when 16-year-old Keyla Casanova hid her boyfriend’s scooter battery under her bed to charge it. Her 13-year-old brother, Andy Casanova, and Yordanis were present during the explosion, which ignited a fire that instantly claimed the lives of the siblings while leaving Yordanis gravely injured.
According to sources close to the family, young Keyla had charged the battery in secret from her mother, unaware of the fatal consequences that mishandling the battery could bring. Incidents like this have become increasingly common in Cuba over recent years, as the use of electric scooters has surged along with the associated risks of improper battery management.
Despite medical efforts, Yordanis Despaigne could not overcome his injuries and passed away after a valiant fight, during which dozens of Cubans rallied to donate blood in hopes of saving him. The siblings' mother, overwhelmed by the tragedy, has been supported by family and neighbors. Regla's residents have come together to offer the family comfort in their time of need.
Escalating Danger of Electric Scooter Incidents in Cuba
This tragedy in Regla is not an isolated incident. Since 2019, Cuba has witnessed a troubling rise in fires related to electric scooters and their batteries, with over 3,000 incidents reported, some resulting in fatalities, according to official sources. The mishandling of lithium batteries, lack of spare parts, and improper repairs have been pinpointed as primary causes of these accidents.
Jorge García Arbelo, a lieutenant colonel and head of the Fire Prevention Technical Unit of the Villa Clara Fire Department, noted that many users are unaware of manufacturers' recommendations for charging batteries. Hazardous practices include connecting batteries immediately after use without allowing them to cool, or charging them overnight beyond the suggested eight-hour limit. These actions heighten the risk of overheating, potentially leading to explosions and fires, such as the one in Regla.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Accidents
Authorities have issued several recommendations to prevent further incidents:
- Allow batteries to cool to room temperature before charging.
- Avoid modifications to scooters that alter manufacturers' specifications.
- Refrain from using homemade or uncertified batteries and adaptations.
- Do not charge batteries in enclosed spaces without proper supervision.
- Keep scooters away from combustible materials like wooden furniture or curtains.
Understanding the Risks of Electric Scooter Batteries
What caused the explosion in Regla, Havana?
The explosion was caused by a mishandled electric scooter battery that was charged improperly underneath a bed, leading to a fire.
How can electric scooter battery fires be prevented?
Preventive measures include allowing batteries to cool before charging, avoiding modifications, using certified batteries, and supervising charging in open spaces.
Why are there more electric scooter incidents in Cuba?
The increase in incidents is partly due to the growing use of electric scooters, along with improper battery handling and lack of awareness about safety protocols.