A devastating accident occurred on Thursday night near Antonio Maceo Square in Santiago de Cuba, resulting in the death of a young motorcyclist. The collision involved a motorcycle and a "pisicorre," a local term for a shared taxi, which was urgently transporting a young girl reportedly under the influence of drugs.
According to local sources who spoke with journalist Yosmany Mayeta, the pisicorre was signaling for priority passage due to the emergency, but the motorcyclist had the green light, leading to the tragic crash. The victim, identified as 30-year-old Miguel Argüelles, died instantly, left lifeless on the street.
Argüelles was not the driver of the motorcycle. The actual rider suffered a broken leg and head injuries, requiring surgical intervention. He is currently receiving medical care at Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital.
A neighbor remembered Argüelles fondly, saying, "He was a hardworking young man. He traveled and had bought a house on Calle 4 de Mariana de la Torre. This is such a painful loss! The good ones are leaving us." Argüelles would have celebrated his 31st birthday on April 27.
Little information is available about the young girl in the taxi. Mayeta Labrada reported that she is 17 years old and is being treated at the North Children's Hospital, known as "La Ondi." Her current condition and identity remain undisclosed.
The tragic incident has sparked discussions about the urgent need for improved traffic coordination and caution, particularly during medical emergencies. The interplay of right-of-way rules, urgency, and the absence of clear protocols can quickly turn a medical emergency into a tragedy.
Until the time of this report, no further details have been released regarding the accident.
Understanding Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What factors contributed to the accident in Santiago de Cuba?
The accident was caused by a combination of the motorcycle having the green light and the shared taxi urgently requesting passage due to a medical emergency.
Who was Miguel Argüelles?
Miguel Argüelles was a 30-year-old man who tragically died in the accident. He was known as a hardworking individual who had recently purchased a home.
What is the current condition of the motorcycle driver?
The driver of the motorcycle suffered a broken leg and head injuries. He underwent surgery and is being treated at the hospital.