Popular street drummer is stabbed in the middle of a street in Matanzas

The assailant, who has not yet been identified, stole the money he had earned playing his improvised drums and inflicted serious wounds with a knife.

Yunier, street drummer from MatanzasPhoto © Facebook/Compraventas en Matanzas

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A violent attack occurred in the city of Matanzas against one of its most beloved figures. Yunier, popularly known as "the crazy drummer", was stabbed on Tuesday night near the provincial terminal in an alleged robbery attempt.

According to a citizen report published in the Facebook group Compraventa en Matanzas, Yunier was stabbed four times while on his usual night round, where he typically earned a living playing his unique handmade drums, made from recycled items.

Facebook Capture/Anonymous Participant

Despite the severity of the attack, the musician survived and is currently recovering. He was initially treated at the hospital and then transferred to his home, located on Pilar Street, between Candelaria and Covadonga, in the Playa neighborhood. The attacker has not yet been identified, and official details regarding the progress of the police investigation are unknown.

Yunier is much more than a street artist. He is regarded by many residents of Matanzas as a popular and cultural icon of the city. He suffers from a mental disability resulting from a childhood fever that caused neurological damage, but he is widely recognized for his good nature, intelligence, creativity, and peaceful spirit.

Yunier playing his improvised drums before the attack/Facebook/Anonymous participant

Every day, from early morning until late at night, he roams the streets of Matanzas with his rustic musical instrument, playing improvised melodies that bring joy to passersby. He has never begged for alms; rather, he has earned the affection of the city through his talent, perseverance, and charisma, the publication emphasizes.

For many, the drummer represents a symbol of joy and resilience, someone who, despite their circumstances and shortcomings, has managed to earn a decent living and become part of the local identity. He is also known as "the one-man band," and has left a profound emotional impact on those who see him day after day.

The attack has sparked a wave of outrage on social media, where citizens have expressed their condemnation of the violent act and have demanded greater security on the streets. Some users have described the incident as "inhumane" and "unjustifiable," given that Yunier is a person with a disability who poses no threat and whose work is purely artistic.

Facebook Capture/Andro Machado

"It's a real shame what happened to that poor boy who never bothered anyone; there are no scruples anymore, and even less respect for people," said an internet user about the incident.

Frequently asked questions about the attack on street drummer Yunier in Matanzas

Who is Yunier and why is he well-known in Matanzas?

Yunier, known as "the crazy drummer," is a beloved street artist in Matanzas. He is famous for playing a handmade drum set crafted from recycled objects, and he is considered a cultural icon of the city. Despite having a mental disability, he is valued for his good nature and creativity.

What happened in the attack against Yunier in Matanzas?

The street drummer Yunier was stabbed four times in an alleged robbery attempt while he was on his nighttime rounds in Matanzas. Fortunately, Yunier survived the attack and is recovering at home. The assailant has not yet been identified.

What has been the community's reaction to the attack on Yunier?

The Matanzas community has shown strong outrage on social media following the attack on Yunier. Citizens have demanded greater security on the streets and have described the act as "inhumane" and "unjustifiable," emphasizing that Yunier is a peaceful and artistic person who does not pose a threat.

What is the situation of violence in Matanzas and in Cuba in general?

Violence in Matanzas and in Cuba has shown a worrying increase, with several incidents reported recently. The population is concerned about the rising insecurity and the lack of effective response from the authorities. In many cases, crimes remain unsolved and citizens turn to social media to express their dissatisfaction.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.