On Wednesday, a court hearing took place regarding the tragic hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of 19-year-old Adrián Rodríguez García from Santa Clara. On December 31, 2023, Rodríguez was left on the roadside after being struck by a scooter driven by Robeisy Pedrozo Gómez. In a surprising turn, the defense is requesting a sentence of three to four years, while the prosecution is seeking nine years—eight for the manslaughter and one for abandoning a person in a vulnerable situation. The driver is also facing a driving ban and is required to pay the victim’s family a compensation of 9,400 Cuban pesos (equivalent to 28 USD).
Family and friends of the deceased were devastated upon leaving the courtroom. This case is not simply about careless homicide; it involves additional negligence by the driver, Robeisy Pedrozo Gómez, who not only failed to assist Rodríguez but also attempted to flee the country six days later from José Martí Airport without a valid driver’s license.
During the trial, the victim's family endured a painful experience as they witnessed the accused driver and his girlfriend exchanging smiles, showing no remorse for his actions. A source close to the victim remarked, "It was as if he hadn’t killed a human being, but an animal."
Adrián Rodríguez’s family had visited him just hours before his untimely death. After leaving the military unit where Rodríguez was serving, they received a call notifying them of his death. They were puzzled as to why he was allowed on the streets instead of being granted leave to celebrate with his family, especially since he had completed his mandatory military service. His extended stay in the military was due to a punishment, during which he was tragically killed. Surprisingly, no military personnel from the unit have been investigated following the incident.
Rodríguez was known for his devout faith, always carrying his Bible. His active nature often clashed with the unit leaders. During his service, he underwent an appendectomy and, four months later, was reportedly forced to do push-ups with a soldier pressing down on him, as shared by those close to him with CiberCuba.
Concerns Over Safety in Military Service
The case of Adrián Rodríguez is not isolated. In the past year, numerous young Cubans have lost their lives during military service. One such case involved 20-year-old Flavio Alonso Piedra, who was found dead under suspicious circumstances. The official report claimed he committed suicide by hanging with his belt, though his family and friends doubt this narrative. A police investigation was initiated.
Another troubling incident occurred in June when a young soldier committed suicide en route from Santa Clara to Matanzas. Despite medical recommendations against his conscription, he was forcibly drafted and transported for a construction assignment. During the journey, he informed his girlfriend that he wouldn’t make it to his destination. No accountability has been assumed for these tragic events.