A 28-year-old Cuban man was tragically murdered on August 8 in Houston, Texas, under still-unclear circumstances. His family is now pleading for not only justice but also assistance in bringing his body back to Cuba.
The victim, Yoel Valdés Piñeiro, originally from Playa Baracoa in the province of Artemisa, had been living in the United States for just two years, according to crime reporter Niover Licea on social media.
"My friends, on August 8, my eldest son was murdered in Houston, Texas. I am asking for help with information on how to bring the body to Cuba. For those living in Texas, if you know anything that can aid police investigations, please contact us immediately. The person who committed this crime must answer to the laws of man and God. This tragedy has devastated two families and took away part of my reason to live," wrote Pedro Valdés Paredes, the victim's father, in a heart-wrenching Facebook post.
"Help me bring my child's body home. His mother and I need to give him one last hug and a proper burial," concluded Valdés Paredes, describing the ordeal as "the most heartbreaking experience a parent can endure."
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched with a goal of raising $20,000 to cover the expenses of repatriating the body. As of this writing, $8,858 has been raised.
"Through this campaign, we hope to gather the necessary funds to cover the transportation and funeral service costs. Any help, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and will allow us to fulfill the family's wish to say goodbye in peace," states the petition, signed by Ivette Valdés, the victim's paternal aunt.
Friends and family of the deceased have expressed their grief over the sudden loss. "You had a whole life ahead of you... With that hunger to conquer the world, to move forward and help your mom like a true warrior... I never had any complaints about you, a model young man, intelligent, hardworking, and above all, a good son. You have left a huge void. I only ask for strength for your mom, who must be devastated... and that your soul finds peace and a beautiful place in heaven... Rest in Peace, Warrior... my admiration, respect, and love for you will be eternal," wrote Danny Lombillo in an emotional Facebook post.
As of this writing, no official information has been released regarding the circumstances of the young Cuban's murder.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tragic Death of Yoel Valdés Piñeiro
Below are some common questions and answers related to the tragic death of Yoel Valdés Piñeiro and the ongoing efforts to repatriate his body to Cuba.
What are the circumstances surrounding Yoel Valdés Piñeiro's death?
As of now, the circumstances of Yoel Valdés Piñeiro's death remain unclear. His family and authorities are seeking information to understand what happened.
How much money is needed to repatriate Yoel Valdés Piñeiro's body to Cuba?
The family has set a goal of raising $20,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to cover the costs of transporting the body and funeral services. As of the latest update, $8,858 has been raised.
How can people help the Valdés Piñeiro family?
People can help by donating to the GoFundMe campaign, providing any information that may aid in the investigation, and sharing the family's plea on social media to raise awareness.