An early morning incident this Monday in Havana involved a P7 route bus (number 715) crashing into a house. This occurred after the driver was attacked by several individuals during his regular route from the Fraternity Park to El Cotorro. Due to the assault—details of which remain unclear—the driver lost control of the bus, resulting in a crash into a residence located at the intersection of Calzada de Luyanó and Ensenada, in the Diez de Octubre municipality.
Despite the severity of the impact—first reported by the Facebook group Transportación Habana TH—fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries reported. The crash happened around 1:15 a.m., shortly after the bus departed from a stop. The material damage at the scene was substantial, as shown in images shared on social media.
The National Revolutionary Police (PNR) responded swiftly to address the emergency and initiate the necessary investigations. "Reports say the driver was assaulted by several individuals when leaving the stop, leading to the bus crashing into the opposite sidewalk's house facade," shared Fernando Alonso, an early informant of the incident on social media.
An official source noted that the Alberro technical team worked diligently to recover the bus and restore it for service.
Public Outcry and Demand for Action
The incident has sparked widespread public outrage. Numerous Cubans have voiced concerns over the increasing violence on the streets, particularly during nighttime when many workers rely on public transportation. "Now the bus is wrecked, and so is the house. Such disrespect! This could have caused fatal harm to people," remarked a commenter, echoing the general sentiment of helplessness.
Questions about capturing the perpetrators have surfaced. "Did they catch any of the assailants? Because that's what they are—murderers, no other words fit"; "Crime in Cuba is escalating at an unprecedented rate"; "We might need armed plainclothes officers on night buses. We can't wait for fatalities," were other opinions shared. In search of solutions, many citizens called for exemplary punishments.
"Swift trials, without leniency, and publicize them through all official media"; "No early releases or sentence reductions. Hard labor in agriculture or construction"; "This is becoming a common occurrence. We cannot accept it. We must act swiftly and decisively," others recommended.
As of the time of this report, no further details have emerged about this unfortunate event, which adds to a series of recent violent acts targeting the capital's public transportation. In late March, a P7 route bus was stoned in the Cotorro municipality, resulting in damage to the left side window pane, occurring just past four in the morning.
Understanding the Surge in Violence Against Public Transport in Cuba
What led to the bus crash in Havana?
The crash occurred after the bus driver was assaulted by several individuals, causing him to lose control and hit a house.
Were there any injuries or fatalities reported?
Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities resulting from the crash.
How has the public reacted to the incident?
The incident has triggered widespread public outrage and concern over increasing street violence, with calls for stronger security measures and exemplary punishments for the perpetrators.