In a heart-wrenching farewell, family members and neighbors gathered to say goodbye to a young Cuban boy who tragically lost his life after being pulled into a drainage system in Havana amid heavy flooding. The child's body was discovered on Tuesday after an exhaustive search lasting over 24 hours. The coffin was brought to his home in the Luyanó neighborhood, where a touching scene unfolded as numerous residents carried and accompanied the casket to the family residence, surrounded by hundreds of mourners.
Jonathan Oliva, a 13-year-old boy, died on Monday after being swept away by a storm drain during severe rainstorms in Havana while walking home from school. Rescue teams, including the Cuban Fire Department, Rescue and Salvage, the Police, and Hydraulic Resources, were immediately mobilized to search for the missing child. Journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso confirmed the recovery of Jonathan's body, though specific details about the discovery were not disclosed.
Jonathan lived on Fábrica Street, within Havana's Diez de Octubre municipality. Reports indicate that he was returning from school when he was caught in one of the areas most severely impacted by flooding, near the Miguel Enríquez Hospital. In a matter of seconds, he was dragged into a storm drain from which he could not escape. Witnesses present at the scene captured the tragic event on video.
Although Jonathan's parents, known as Roly and Yami, were not at the location when it happened, they later identified their son through his clothing and the silhouette seen in the footage. The devastating realization that it was indeed Jonathan, affectionately called “Papito,” left an indelible mark on the community.
Key Details About the Tragic Incident in Havana
What led to Jonathan Oliva's tragic death in Havana?
Jonathan Oliva was caught in a storm drain during severe flooding in Havana while returning home from school. The force of the water pulled him into the drainage system, leading to his untimely death.
How did the community respond to the incident?
The community came together to mourn the loss of Jonathan, with neighbors and family members escorting his casket to the family home. The incident left a deep impact on those who knew him, and many gathered to pay their respects.
Who confirmed the discovery of Jonathan's body?
The confirmation came from journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso, although no further details about the circumstances of the body's discovery were provided.