Raciel Mateo Vega, the 18-year-old found dead in a river on Monday in San Luis, Santiago de Cuba, is believed to have died from a heart attack, although some question the official version provided by Criminalistics, according to Yosmany Mayeta on Wednesday.
The source indicated that after the young man was reported missing on Sunday, his family began searching the vicinity of the Río Grande. It wasn't until Monday morning that they discovered his body.
His body was reportedly removed from the water by his relatives. It had scrapes on the face and bruises on the body, but forensic authorities argued these were due to the river's currents. Although initial speculations suggested a possible murder, the official report confirmed a natural death.
A family source refuted claims that Raciel had been sexually assaulted and found naked. They clarified that his uncle found the body, and he was wearing the same shorts he had on when last seen.
No Funeral Held
The remains of Raciel Mateo Vega could not be mourned in a funeral home by his family. They were only given 15 minutes for a brief farewell at the cemetery.
"The three women conducting the examination said that due to the number of hours he had been in the water, a wake was not possible. They said it had to be direct, allowing only 10 to 15 minutes at the cemetery for goodbyes, but no authorization was given for a wake at the Funeral Home," the family source stated.
Just hours after being found and taken to the municipal hospital for a cause of death determination, a few neighbors and family members bid farewell to the young man at the cemetery.
Despite the official version citing a heart attack as the cause of death, several young neighbors who were with Raciel at the river on Sunday were summoned to the police station to provide statements about the incident.
Raciel's parents were also called by forensic police for an explanation of the events. According to Mayeta Labrada, authorities advised the parents not to make premature judgments about the bruises and other marks, as the autopsy would reveal what had truly happened.
"Family members may think one thing at first sight, but scientific verification can prove otherwise," concluded the communicator.
The young man's death has caused sorrow among those who knew him, as they describe him as helpful and very kind to the elderly in his community, with whom he often conversed. They also noted that he was a hardworking young man who sold candies to help his mother. As of this report, no further details are available about this tragic case, which has left another Cuban family in mourning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Raciel Mateo Vega's Death
In light of the tragic passing of Raciel Mateo Vega, several questions have arisen regarding the circumstances of his death. Here, we address some of the most pressing inquiries.
What was the official cause of Raciel Mateo Vega's death?
The official cause of death was determined to be a heart attack, as per the report from forensic authorities.
Were there any signs of foul play in Raciel Mateo Vega's death?
While initial suspicions suggested foul play, the official report confirmed that the bruises and scrapes were caused by the river's currents, ruling out a murder.
Why was Raciel Mateo Vega's body not allowed to be waked in a funeral home?
Due to the extended period his body had been in the water, forensic examiners deemed it unsuitable for a wake, allowing only a brief farewell at the cemetery.