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A Cuban man died from gunshot wounds sustained during a shooting that occurred earlier this month in the northwest area of Roanoke, Virginia, United States.
The Roanoke Police Department (RPD) identified the victim as 32-year-old Rafael Pérez Naranjo.
According to the information provided this Sunday by Cuban influencer Niover Licea, Pérez Naranjo was Cuban, originally from Camagüey, and was living in the city where he was killed.
The police stated in a brief communiqué that on December 4, at approximately 6:50 p.m., officers responded to the 4800 block of Lanford Street NW following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, the officers found a man with gunshot wounds who, unfortunately, “died at the scene.”
Subsequently, the authorities revealed the victim's identity to local media, but not their nationality.
According to the report from Licea, the Cuban was caught in the middle of an armed confrontation between a group of Puerto Ricans in a parking lot, but this information has not been confirmed by the police.
He also stated that Pérez Naranjo had been living in the U.S. for several years, although he did not specify how many.
So far, the RPD has not reported any arrests in connection with this tragic incident, which is still under investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the shooting in Virginia and violence against Cubans abroad
Who was the victim of the shooting in Roanoke, Virginia?
The victim was Rafael Pérez Naranjo, a 32-year-old Cuban originally from Camagüey and residing in Roanoke, Virginia. He was shot and killed on December 4th in the 4800 block of Lanford Street NW.
What is known about the circumstances of the shooting in Virginia?
The shooting occurred in a parking lot and, according to an influencer, Rafael Pérez Naranjo got caught in an armed confrontation between a group of Puerto Ricans. This information has not been confirmed by the police, who are still investigating the case without having made any arrests so far.
Have there been any recent cases of violence against Cubans abroad?
Yes, several violent incidents have occurred. For example, in July 2024, a Cuban doctor named Yoel Nápoles Ravelo was shot by police in Kentucky. In another case, a Cuban was shot and killed in Mexico in October 2024.
How is violence affecting the Cuban community abroad?
Violence is creating an atmosphere of insecurity and concern among Cubans living abroad. Cases like that of Rafael Pérez Naranjo, along with other recent incidents, demonstrate that the Cuban community is facing significant challenges regarding personal safety. The community is forced to cope with the emotional and social impacts of these crimes.
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