A Cuban teenager died instantly after being struck by a motorcycle in the city of Santiago de Cuba early Sunday morning. The victim of the fatal accident was identified as Kevin Quiala Suárez, 16, who was hit after leaving a bar where he had been hanging out with neighborhood friends, according to a Facebook post by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada.
One of Quiala's close friends told the reporter that it seemed the young man "didn't notice the motorcycle coming and was hit." According to Mayeta's post, the motorcyclist also "suffered severe injuries from the impact and is in critical condition at a hospital in the city."
The information shared by Mayeta states that Quiala's body will be kept in cold storage until family members living abroad arrive, though it will be briefly displayed for a wake. The sudden death of the teenager has deeply affected his family, friends, schoolmates, and teachers.
A friend, María Carla Benítez, expressed her sorrow on social media: "I still can't believe you're gone, my brother. You know you were always there for me in good and bad times, and I was there for you. My Tank, wherever you are, I will always carry you in my heart because you were more than a friend; you were a brother to me."
In a comment on Mayeta's post, a young man identified as Yover Más Duro Guibert, who was with Quiala at the time of his death, expressed his shock over the tragic event: "I've never seen a motorcycle hit someone so hard. I haven't slept thinking about it. We had just started a friendship, and I really feel for his family and friends. My condolences."
Guibert shared a photo and video of the group of friends at the bar and affirmed that the deceased "wasn't drunk or anything like that; he just crossed the street without looking, and there was no time to react. It happened right in front of me."
Dayana Estrada, one of Quiala's teachers, also expressed the pain felt by his teachers and classmates: "Kevin, Rest In Peace. The teachers and students of 9th grade 2 are very sad. We will always remember you, my boy. Your teacher Dayana carries you in her heart."
Another teacher, Yanet Constanten Seguí, commented that he was "a boy with a strong character but very noble and with very good feelings. It's really painful to see such a vibrant life cut short. On behalf of all your General Education teachers and your classmates, we extend our deepest condolences to your family and friends. The pain is immense, but God must have a beautiful place for you in heaven. Rest In Peace."
Numerous expressions of grief and condolences to the family for the early death of the teenager have been posted on social media since the news of the tragic event broke.
Questions About the Tragic Motorcycle Accident in Santiago de Cuba
This section addresses some common questions and concerns related to the tragic motorcycle accident that claimed the life of Kevin Quiala Suárez in Santiago de Cuba.
Who was Kevin Quiala Suárez?
Kevin Quiala Suárez was a 16-year-old teenager who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Santiago de Cuba.
What caused the accident?
The accident occurred when Kevin crossed the street without noticing an oncoming motorcycle, which then struck him.
What is the condition of the motorcyclist?
The motorcyclist sustained severe injuries from the impact and is currently in critical condition at a hospital in Santiago de Cuba.
How are Kevin's family and friends coping with the loss?
Kevin's sudden death has deeply affected his family, friends, schoolmates, and teachers, who have expressed their grief and condolences on social media.