A young woman from Santiago de Cuba tragically succumbed to her injuries in the Burn Unit of the Juan Bruno Zayas Clinical Surgical Hospital after battling severe burns covering 56% of her body. Additionally, she suffered respiratory damage due to smoke inhalation. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community of Chivirico in the coastal municipality of Guamá, where the victim, Aldaris Hung Vega, a graduate in Spanish and Literature, resided.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta reported the tragic event on Facebook, noting that the circumstances surrounding her death remain murky. Conflicting accounts from neighbors and acquaintances have emerged regarding the incident. Some claim that her partner locked her in a room and set it ablaze, while others insist he was not responsible. Despite these conflicting stories, her partner is currently detained while authorities conduct a thorough investigation, Mayeta indicated.
"There are various rumors. Some suggest her partner lit the fire, but others maintain he is innocent and only held as a precaution until the facts are clear," shared a close friend of the deceased.
As of now, officials have yet to release an official report confirming whether the incident was a femicide or a self-inflicted act. Nevertheless, her partner remains in police custody as the investigation proceeds.
In recent months, several similar incidents of severe burns and assaults have alarmed Cuban society. One particularly shocking case occurred in Santiago de Cuba, where an entire family was murdered, and their home set on fire to cover up a robbery. This horrific event left three people dead and sparked outrage among residents, who decried the increasing insecurity in the area.
Another recent tragedy involved Isaira Despaigne, a 33-year-old mother in Santiago de Cuba, who died from extensive burns. Witnesses claimed her partner set her on fire, although authorities have not officially confirmed the details. Her death left her three children orphaned and ignited demands for justice across social media platforms.
Extreme acts of violence have also been reported in Havana. In May 2023, a 13-year-old girl perished in a fire started by a man who, after an argument with her father, threw a flammable liquid and set the family’s home alight. The community called for justice for the young girl, highlighting the escalation of extreme violence in the country.
Besides intentional attacks, accidental fires have also taken a toll. In September 2023, a young woman in Havana suffered severe burns and lost all her possessions when an electric scooter exploded inside her home. The surge in such incidents has been linked to issues with lithium batteries, raising concerns about the safety of these vehicles in Cuba.
Key Questions about Recent Violence and Fire Incidents in Cuba
What are the main theories regarding Aldaris Hung Vega's death?
There are conflicting theories about her death: some suggest her partner locked her in a room and set it on fire, while others believe he was not involved. The case is under investigation.
How has the community reacted to these incidents in Cuba?
The community has expressed outrage and demanded justice, particularly in cases where violence led to fatalities. There are growing concerns about safety and security.
What safety concerns are associated with electric scooters in Cuba?
Electric scooters have been linked to fires due to issues with lithium batteries, raising safety concerns across the country.