A tragic event has left Cienfuegos in mourning this Tuesday as news spread of the death of Miguel, a renowned local spearfisher, while diving in the province's waters. Friends and fellow divers have confirmed the unfortunate incident.
The heartbreaking news was first shared in the Facebook group "Spearfishing in Cienfuegos," which connects enthusiasts from the central province and beyond. As of now, the specific circumstances surrounding Miguel's passing remain unclear. However, a source close to the situation told CiberCuba that Miguel experienced a blackout—a sudden loss of consciousness due to apnea—while diving alone.
The Impact of Miguel's Passing
Miguel, affectionately known as Miguelito 20 Brazas, passed away just hours after another Cuban diver, Rayner Álvarez Borges, lost his life in the waters off Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. Miguel's death has profoundly affected those who knew him, including members of the spearfishing community across Cuba, who have taken to social media to express their sorrow and admiration for him.
"Rest in peace, champion. Life is tough, and the sea spares no mistakes. May God grant you the best place you deserve. You were one of the greats here in Cienfuegos, and we will always remember you," wrote Carlos Spearfishing. He also urged fellow divers to "be cautious and avoid diving alone or taking unnecessary risks, remembering that families await our safe return home."
Community Mourns a Legend
Reinier Castellón, deeply saddened, commented, "Today, Cienfuegos wears mourning with the loss of Miguelito. Words cannot console the deep pain of his departure. May God bless and strengthen his family and friends. I write this with tears streaming down my face, joining all who feel the same loss today. I am especially hurt as I'm away from Cuba and unable to bid him farewell. I am grateful for the times we shared."
Randy Ruiz Núñez, another of Miguel's colleagues, emphasized, "He lives on among us, physically absent but sentimentally present. Rest in peace, champion; those who knew and loved you will remember you. Migue, you left us too soon."
In a tribute from Kaddir Gerones, another friend, he shared, "He will always be remembered as the greatest spearfisher La Perla has given us—tenacious, tireless, never coming back empty-handed. Although we'd all prefer him here, he always said, 'Kaddir, the sea is my life, and if I ever have to die, I hope it's in the sea.' Though it was his wish, brother, we will miss you, for you were a fighter and an honest man who fished solely to support your loved ones."
José Mustelier added, "A good person, a kind heart, a skilled diver—Miguelito 20 Brazas is a story, a legend, and we will all keep him in our hearts."
Spearfishing Dangers in Cuba
Regrettably, this year has seen other fatalities among Cuban spearfishers. In May, Rafael Fernández lost his life while fishing near Playa Baracoa in Artemisa. Months earlier, Joaquín Carmona Vázquez from Isla de la Juventud drowned when a giant grouper he was attempting to catch dragged him into a water hole, preventing his return to the surface.
Understanding Spearfishing Risks in Cuba
What is a blackout in spearfishing?
A blackout in spearfishing refers to a sudden loss of consciousness due to prolonged apnea or lack of oxygen, often happening when a diver pushes beyond their breath-hold limits.
How can spearfishers stay safe in the water?
Spearfishers can enhance safety by diving with a buddy, avoiding pushing their limits, understanding the local marine environment, and being aware of their physical condition before and during dives.