US citizen was among those killed in Cuba speedboat shootout. Here’s what we know
US Citizen Among Casualties in Cuba Speedboat Incident
Cuban military personnel killed four individuals, including a U.S. citizen, on a Florida-registered speedboat attempting to cross into Cuban territorial waters. The event occurred on Wednesday, with authorities confirming the boat’s intent to “infiltrate” the island. A U.S. official disclosed that two Americans were aboard the vessel, one of whom sustained injuries and is receiving treatment in Cuba.
Shooting Details and Initial Response
Cuba’s Interior Ministry reported that the speedboat entered Falcones Cay, a coastal area in Villa Clara province, approximately 100 miles from Florida. Cuban border guards engaged the boat after a passenger opened fire, injuring the vessel’s commander. In response, forces returned fire, resulting in four fatalities and six injuries. The survivors are currently in custody, according to the ministry.
Boat and Crew Background
The 24-foot power boat, registered as FL7726SH in the U.S., was manufactured in 1981. Cuban authorities noted that the passengers were Cuban residents holding U.S. visas and armed with assault rifles, handguns, and Molotov cocktails. Their goal was described as a “terrorist infiltration.” An additional individual, believed to be sent from the U.S. to assist the operation, was detained and admitted to involvement.
Witness Accounts and Stolen Boat
A sheriff’s report revealed the boat had been reported stolen in the Florida Keys on Wednesday night. The owner claimed Hector Correa, a Cuban man employed for tile work, had taken it without permission. Initially, the owner assumed Correa was using the boat for fishing. It was only after media inquiries that the owner realized Correa’s destination. A witness later confirmed seeing Correa board the craft in a white truck, which was registered to him.
Survivors and Alleged Terrorist Links
Two of the surviving passengers had prior terrorism charges in Cuba. One of them reportedly shared a declaration of an impending attack in a Facebook post, signed by four anti-government groups on January 31. The post pledged to take “imminent” action. Earlier this month, the same individual posted a video stating that if injured, they would likely die due to blood-thinning medication.
International Reactions and Analysis
Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío stated the country is still awaiting responses to its inquiries about the men and groups linked to the incident. Michael J. Bustamante, a Cuban studies professor at the University of Miami, noted the organizations involved may be known in certain circles of the Cuban diaspora but are considered fringe groups. While the attack appeared unplanned, he suggested it reflects a legacy of covert organizing by Cuban exiles.
“If I’m injured in any action, I’m likely to die,” the individual said in a video posted earlier this month, referencing their use of blood thinners.
CNN has contacted the White House for further remarks. The incident has intensified diplomatic scrutiny between the U.S. and Cuba, with both nations launching separate investigations. As details unfold, the event underscores the ongoing challenges in the region and the potential for covert operations by dissident groups.
