A Cuban woman, mother to a young child, was tragically shot by her former husband in the chest in the Lugones neighborhood of Ciego de Ávila, according to witnesses. The incident happened on the night of January 28th, following a heated argument between the victim, Yaricza Chávez, and her ex-partner, Osmeidy Leyva Abreu.
After the shooting, the alleged shooter attempted to help Chávez and transported her to the "Antonio Luaces Iraola" Provincial Hospital. Sadly, she succumbed to the chest injury. The suspect was taken into custody and is currently awaiting judicial proceedings. Initial reports suggest he claimed to have purchased the firearm in Camagüey.
Social Media Stirred by the Tragic Event
The case has sparked debate online, with some users voicing support for the alleged shooter. "Don't speak about what you don't know if you don't know him; he's an excellent father, neighbor, and friend. It was an accident, he couldn't harm anyone. This has been very painful for all of us who knew them," wrote a user named Alejandro Sardiñas Morales.
In response, another user questioned, "How do you accidentally shoot someone in the chest? I'm sorry if he's a friend of yours, but I can't believe someone accidentally ends another person's life." Another commenter described the suspect as a "nervous wreck" without medication.
Meanwhile, the victim's family and friends are devastated by the tragedy. As of this report, no official information has been released regarding the incident. Feminist platforms in Cuba have not commented on what is alleged to be a femicide.
Earlier this year, on January 8th, independent feminist platforms confirmed the first femicide of 2025 in Cuba, involving a mother from Holguín named Elizabeth (Lisi) Ramírez Fernández. By December 19th, 2024, there had been 55 confirmed femicides, eight attempted femicides, and six cases requiring further police investigation. Additionally, there were reports of two gender-motivated murders of men.
Understanding the Rise in Gender-Based Violence in Cuba
What led to the tragic incident involving Yaricza Chávez?
The incident occurred after a heated argument between Yaricza Chávez and her former husband, resulting in her being shot in the chest.
How has social media reacted to the incident?
The incident has sparked a divided response on social media, with some defending the alleged shooter while others question the nature of the shooting.
What is the state of femicide cases in Cuba?
In 2024, there were 55 confirmed femicides, with additional cases of attempted femicide and ongoing investigations. Feminist platforms are tracking these alarming statistics.