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A terrible loss has caused great shock in Cienfuegos this Tuesday: the death of Miguel, regarded as one of the best local divers, while he was fishing in the waters of the province, as confirmed by colleagues and friends.
The sad news was announced in the Facebook group "Underwater Fishing in Cienfuegos," which brings together enthusiasts of this activity in the central province and other regions of Cuba.
So far, it has not been officially confirmed under what circumstances the renowned deep-sea fisherman lost his life. However, a person close to him informed CiberCuba that Miguel experienced a blackout (a fainting or sudden loss of consciousness due to apnea or lack of breathing) while diving alone.
The passing of the renowned deep-sea diver, known as Miguelito 20 brazas, occurred just a few hours after the death of another Cuban fisherman. Rayner Álvarez Borges, 42 years old, lost his life last Saturday in the waters of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, Spain.
The death of the skilled diver from Cienfuegos has caused deep sorrow and dismay among those who knew him and shared his passion, as well as among members of the underwater fishing community across the country, who have filled social media with countless heartfelt tributes and expressions of respect and admiration for Miguelito.
"Rest in peace, champion. Life is tough... the sea doesn’t forgive even the slightest mistake. May God keep you in the best place, as you deserve. You were one of the greats here in Cienfuegos, and we will always remember you," were the heartfelt words of the young man identified as Carlos Spearfising.
He also urged those who engage in this type of fishing: “Let’s be mindful and not fish alone or act recklessly. Remember, we have a family waiting for us back home.”
Deeply distressed, Reinier Castellón stated: "Today the province of Cienfuegos mourns the loss of Miguelito; there are no words that can provide comfort at this moment due to the profound pain of his departure."
“God bless and strengthen all his family and friends. I write with tears streaming down my face and join all those who today feel the same pain, and it hurts me even more, as I am outside of Cuba and cannot be there to say goodbye. I thank God for the times I was able to talk and share with him,” he expressed in his heartfelt message. “God bless, comfort, and strengthen all of us who mourn his irreplaceable loss today, especially his wife and children.”
Randy Ruiz Núñez, another colleague of Miguel, emphasized: “He remains and will continue to live among us, physically absent but sentimentally present. Rest in peace, champion; those of us who knew you and those who love you will remember you here. Migue, damn it, you left us.”
In a comment on another post, Kaddir Gerones also paid tribute: "He will always be the greatest underwater fisherman La Perla has given us—tenacious, tireless, and to my recollection, he never returned empty-handed. Although we would all have preferred him to be with us, he always told me, ‘Kaddir, the sea is my life, and if one day I have to die, I would want it to be in the sea.’ Those are his exact words. Yet, even if that was his wish, damn it, brother, we are going to miss you. With all your strengths and weaknesses, you were a fighter, honest, and all you did was fish to support your family, as you never indulged in luxuries. You were dedicated to your passion and to your loved ones."
"Good person, good heart, great diver, Miguelito 20 fathoms, a story, a legend, we will all remember you in our hearts," stated José Mustelier.
Unfortunately, this year there have been other reported deaths of spearfishers in Cuba. In May, Rafael Fernández died while fishing in the waters near Playa Baracoa, in the province of Artemisa.
Months earlier, Joaquín Carmona Vázquez from Isla de la Juventud drowned when a guasa grouper – also known as giant grouper – that he was trying to catch dragged him into a water hole, from which the fisherman was unable to resurface.
Frequently Asked Questions about Underwater Fishing and Safety in Cuba
Who was Miguelito 20 brazas and how did he die?
Miguel, known as Miguelito 20 brazas, was a prominent spearfisher from Cienfuegos, Cuba, whose death has caused significant shock in his community. He passed away while practicing underwater fishing, his passion and livelihood.
How has the community of Cienfuegos reacted to this tragedy?
The community of Cienfuegos has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the deep-sea fisherman. Family, friends, and acquaintances of Miguelito have shared their grief and reminisced about the deceased.
What dangers does underwater fishing face in Cuba?
Underwater fishing carries significant risks, such as attacks from marine wildlife, adverse weather conditions, and accidents while diving. Incidents in recent months in Cuba have highlighted the importance of taking precautions, such as not fishing alone and being well-equipped.
What safety measures are recommended for underwater fishermen?
It is recommended not to engage in solo spearfishing and always inform someone about your location and estimated return time. Furthermore, it is crucial to have the appropriate equipment and be aware of sea conditions before starting the activity.
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