A man died this week on Acosta Street, in Old Havana, after falling from a considerable height, reportedly while trying to enter his home through the balcony.
According to testimonies gathered from local residents, the individual reportedly forgot his keys and attempted to climb from a neighboring balcony to access his home.
Unfortunately, the attempt ended in a fatal fall.
Several residents claimed to know him, even mentioning that his name was "Jorge" and that he worked as a clerk in a nearby store on San Ignacio Street.
A video circulated on social media showed the corpse covered with a sheet, as well as police presence and a large gathering of neighbors in the area.
Firefighters, an option that is not well-known or is often considered unreliable
One of the most notable comments came from Andy Delgado, who identified himself as a member of the Fire Department and recalled that in Cuba, firefighters provide home entry services in situations like this, and their intervention does not necessarily involve damage to the property.
He stated that these operations always aim to cause the least possible damage to the property.
However, their claim was met with skepticism.
Some citizens responded that they have had frustrating experiences trying to contact emergency services, whether due to a lack of fuel, personnel, or willingness to respond.
"You could die calling, and no one would come," commented an internet user.
Another pointed out that although the service exists in theory, in practice it rarely works, and that is why many people prefer to take a risk rather than wait for a response that will probably never arrive.
A reflection of everyday desperation
Although there are not many confirmed details about what happened, this case has generated not only sadness but also deeper reflections on the social and economic situation in the island.
For many, these types of tragedies reveal the extent to which precariousness, distrust in institutions, and the lack of accessible solutions are impacting the daily lives of Cubans.
“We are living so close to the edge that a forgotten key could cost you your life”, wrote a netizen. However, others deemed it a great recklessness to attempt to enter a home in that manner.
There have also been calls to highlight these types of cases more, not just as isolated tragedies, but as symptoms of a deeper crisis.
"It's not just an accident: it's the lack of services, the lack of trust that someone will respond, and the routine of misery that is killing people," said a user.
As of the publication of this note, no further details about the tragic event have emerged.
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