Relatives of 34-year-old Cuban Duniel Arjona Soto, who allegedly killed his one-year-old son before taking his own life in a shocking murder-suicide case in San Antonio, Texas, are grappling with disbelief and sorrow. The bond between Duniel and his son, Benjamín, was described as deep and inseparable. Family members recall how Duniel was constantly by his son's side, even while working.
Those who knew Duniel remember him as a devoted father. “He loved that child so much, we just can't understand what happened,” said Liosbanis Rodríguez, Duniel’s half-brother, in a statement to Univision. He described how Duniel often worked while carrying his son in a Walmart shopping cart, stating, “We worked for Walmart delivery, and Duniel always had the child with him, carrying him along.” Even when he had to go to a second floor, the child was always with him.
The family's shock is compounded by the perceived unbreakable bond between father and son. “We are all in shock because he loved that child so much, we don't understand what happened,” Rodríguez reiterated. This tragedy has left loved ones searching for answers to a decision they never anticipated.
Grieving and Planning Amidst Fear of Returning to Cuba
As they come to terms with the tragedy, Duniel's family is making plans for his farewell. “We will hold a four-hour wake, then we will cremate him and figure out how to take the ashes to Cuba,” noted his half-brother. However, their plans are overshadowed by the fear of returning to Cuba, exacerbated by migration restrictions imposed by the Trump Administration. “I have residency, but I'm afraid to travel to Cuba. They say they’re not allowing anyone in,” he added.
Community Support Amidst Grief and Economic Burden
The family has begun efforts to repatriate the remains and say their goodbyes in their homeland. Through social media and fundraising platforms, they are seeking assistance to cover the costs of cremation and transportation. Alongside their grief, they face economic challenges and bureaucratic obstacles.
Friends, acquaintances, and members of the Cuban community in the United States have expressed their disbelief. “It's hard to believe he could do something like this,” said friends still reeling from the news. As of this report, no new details have emerged from the ongoing police investigation, which continues to treat the incident as a murder-suicide.
FAQs about the Tragic Incident in Texas
What is known about the relationship between Duniel and his son?
Duniel Arjona Soto was known to have a deep and inseparable bond with his son, Benjamín. Family members recall that he was always with his child, even during work.
What are the family's plans for Duniel's farewell?
The family plans to hold a four-hour wake, followed by cremation. They hope to transport his ashes to Cuba, although they are concerned about travel restrictions.
How is the community responding to this incident?
Friends and members of the Cuban community in the U.S. have expressed shock and disbelief over the incident. They are also providing support through fundraising efforts to help the family with expenses.