Pavel Alling Peña, one of the four individuals killed in a shooting involving a speedboat off the Cuban coast, was an American citizen, as revealed by his social media posts and reports from U.S. media outlets.
In November 2022, Alling announced on Facebook that he had successfully completed his citizenship interview.
"It is an honor to be a citizen of this GREAT country. I am beyond thrilled and happy with this achievement," he expressed at the time.
Axios reported on Thursday, citing U.S. officials, that American citizens were aboard the 24-foot vessel involved in the deadly confrontation with the Cuban coast guard.
According to the report, at least one of the deceased was a U.S. citizen, and another American was among the injured, receiving medical treatment in Cuba.
The incident resulted in four deaths and six injuries, escalating tensions between Washington and Havana.
Cuban authorities identified the deceased as Pavel Alling Peña, Michael Ortega Casanova, Ledián Padrón Guevara, and Héctor Duani Cruz Correa.
U.S. officials informed Axios that Washington has formally requested consular access to the six survivors while an independent investigation is underway.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. government will not base its conclusions solely on the account provided by Havana.
The Cuban regime claims the vessel breached territorial waters and that its occupants intended to carry out a "terrorist infiltration," alleging that weapons were seized on board.
Meanwhile, Washington continues to gather information and is working to gain access to the survivors to clarify the events.
What Happened During the Cuban Coast Guard Incident?
Who was Pavel Alling Peña?
Pavel Alling Peña was one of the four individuals killed in a shooting involving a speedboat off the Cuban coast. He was a U.S. citizen, as confirmed by his social media posts and U.S. media reports.
What is the stance of the U.S. government on the incident?
The U.S. government, represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has stated that it will not base its conclusions solely on the version provided by the Cuban authorities. Washington has requested consular access to the survivors and is conducting an independent investigation.