The wife of a man who lost his life during a boat incident off the Cuban coast shared her grief with Univision after receiving confirmation of her husband's tragic demise, describing the day as overwhelmingly heartbreaking for her family.
Monroe County authorities identified the deceased as Héctor Duardy Cruz Cabrera, aged 42, while the Cuban regime listed him in their official statement as Héctor Duani Cruz Correa, naming him among the four individuals who perished in the maritime confrontation.
According to the Univision report, the wife, Yarisleidis, learned of the tragic news in the afternoon. Earlier, she had been interviewed before the death was confirmed, expressing her concern as she hadn't heard from him since the previous Friday.
“I just reported to the police, I just got back from Puerto Rico because I am studying there,” she stated.
At their family home in Homestead, she clarified that she had no knowledge of her husband’s involvement in any organization.
“No, he didn’t belong to anything, he was the most noble, honest person, didn’t speak much, didn't bother anyone, all he did was do good and work,” she affirmed.
The couple had been together for over three years and lived with her daughter, who had arrived from Cuba three years ago.
The report also highlighted that the boat theft occurred at Big Pine marina, and the vessel was owned by Ángel Walter Montera, the owner of a home in the Keys where Héctor worked.
Regarding his occupation, his wife mentioned that he was employed as a builder and handled maintenance and renovation jobs at that residence.
In the interview, Yarisleidis stated she was unaware of any military experience or connections her husband might have had with exile-related groups.
“I can’t say anything about that, I know nothing about it. My husband was the most peaceful, kind, good person, the finest human being a mother could have,” she expressed.
The incident remains under investigation in both the United States and Cuba, where authorities have labeled it as an attempted armed infiltration.
Details Surrounding the Cuban Boat Incident
Who was Héctor Duardy Cruz Cabrera?
Héctor Duardy Cruz Cabrera was a 42-year-old man identified by Monroe County authorities as one of the individuals who died in the maritime incident off the Cuban coast.
What role did Héctor play in the incident?
The specific role of Héctor Duardy Cruz Cabrera in the incident is unclear. His wife mentioned he was not involved with any organization and was known for his good nature and work ethic.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing in both the United States and Cuba, with the event being described by Cuban authorities as an attempted armed infiltration.