In a troubling incident in Ciego de Ávila, a driver refused to assist a child who had been rendered unconscious following a traffic accident. The event unfolded near the Ñola Sahig Sainz School of Art, where a 10-year-old boy suffered a severe head injury after a bicycle accident with his father.
Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez, a freelance journalist, reported on his Facebook page that teachers, students, and passersby attempted to flag down a car to transport the injured child to the hospital. However, the driver declined to offer help. Despite desperate pleas to at least take the child to the nearest clinic, the driver started the car and left, leaving the boy unconscious in the street.
Rodríguez Sánchez addressed the driver directly, stating, "A parent took a photo of your car, and I'm posting it here to expose you to public shame. Authorities are looking for you, and there are numerous witnesses to your actions."
He also revealed that the injured child is currently hospitalized and under medical care. Although stable, he remains at risk due to a significant cranial injury. This incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media, though some argue that in such cases, moving the injured person is not advisable, and waiting for an ambulance is the safest option.
A lawyer from Camagüey noted, "What this driver did is clearly defined in the penal code as neglect of a minor or defenseless person. With that license plate, I'm almost certain they can be found, provided the police are willing to pursue it."
A concerned mother commented, "Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to help others. They might think they'll never need anything from anyone, but that's a mistake. In life, everyone falls at some point, and while I won't call it karma, I believe it's divine justice, especially when it involves an innocent child."
Meanwhile, a journalist expressed disagreement, reminding that individuals with head trauma should not be moved without medical or paramedic assistance, as it could endanger their recovery or even their lives. "This post would be unnecessary in a country with proper ambulance services or freedom of speech to protest against those responsible for the lack of such services," she emphasized.
A young man echoed these sentiments, pointing out that outside of Cuba, it's advised to wait for paramedics, as untrained individuals trying to help might worsen the situation. "To what extent has Cuban society reached when they criticize a private citizen for not acting as an ambulance while the hospitals lack resources and no one speaks up? 'Refusal to assist' only exists under communism," he asserted.
Understanding the Incident and Its Implications
What happened in the traffic accident in Ciego de Ávila?
A 10-year-old boy was involved in a bicycle accident with his father and suffered a severe head injury, leaving him unconscious. A driver refused to help transport him to the hospital.
Why did the driver refuse to help the injured child?
The driver ignored pleas for assistance and left the scene. The reasons for his refusal were not provided in the reports, leading to public outrage and condemnation.
What are the legal implications of the driver's actions?
According to a lawyer, the driver's actions could be classified as neglect of a minor, which is a punishable offense under Cuban law, assuming the authorities pursue the case.
What are the general guidelines for assisting someone with a head injury?
Experts advise against moving individuals with head injuries without professional medical assistance, as improper handling could exacerbate their condition.