A 29-year-old Cuban man known as Willy "N," who performs in various bars around Cancun, was critically injured early Thursday morning after being shot nine times. The incident took place on Calle 8 in Supermanzana 23, between Granadillo and Palmera streets, behind the Batab Hotel, according to local news sources.
The assault happened around 11:00 PM Wednesday as the victim was walking home after a performance. In his statement to the police, Willy mentioned that four individuals surrounded him with the apparent intent to rob him. He identified two of the assailants by their nicknames, "El Paso" and "Joquel."
Willy suffered four gunshot wounds to the chest, two to one arm, two to his legs, and one to the groin. Nearby residents, alarmed by the sound of gunfire, called emergency services at 911. When officers arrived, they found him lying face down in the street, bleeding heavily.
Red Cross paramedics provided immediate first aid and rushed him to the "Dr. Jesús Kumate Rodríguez" General Hospital. By Thursday morning, his condition remained critical, with an uncertain prognosis.
Heightened Security Measures in Response
The Security Complex (C5) initiated "red code" protocols, deploying municipal, state, and federal police forces. Witnesses reported seeing four men run into the Palmas Hotel following the attack. Authorities confirmed the presence of four men matching the descriptions provided.
As reported by PorEsto!, the detained individuals were identified as Luis "N" (34 years old), Rubén "N" (40 years old), Enrique "N" (37 years old), and Jasiel "N," all of Cuban nationality. They were taken to the Citizen Security Secretariat for further legal proceedings.
State prosecutors collected two bullet casings from a handgun at the scene for ballistic analysis and are reviewing surveillance footage to enhance the investigation.
Ongoing Investigations Amidst Rising Tensions
The incident occurs amidst increasing friction in Supermanzana 23, where locals have been protesting against foreign residents over disturbances and criminal activities.
This is not the first violent event involving Cubans in Cancun this year. On March 23, three Cubans were shot in the irregular El Sheriff neighborhood in Region 236, resulting in one death. On May 5, another Cuban man was arrested for the murder of his ex-partner in a city bar. In June 2024, Cuban musician Ismael González Almeida, a guitarist for Familia Son, was killed outside a venue in the same city.
The Quintana Roo State Attorney General's Office is actively investigating the incident to determine the motive and assess the culpability of the four suspects.
FAQs about the Shooting Incident in Cancun
Who was injured in the Cancun shooting?
The victim was Willy "N," a 29-year-old Cuban singer performing in Cancun bars.
What actions have authorities taken following the shooting?
Authorities have detained four suspects and are conducting a detailed investigation, including reviewing surveillance footage and analyzing ballistic evidence.
Have there been other incidents involving Cubans in Cancun this year?
Yes, there have been multiple violent incidents involving Cubans in Cancun, including shootings and a murder earlier this year.