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A multiple traffic accident occurred on the night of this Wednesday on the road to Guardalavaca, in the province of Holguín, leaving a preliminary toll of several injuries and at least one confirmed minor fatality.
At the moment, the total number of injured is unclear. It is also not clear if there was only one fatality.
In the accident, which occurred "on the straight" near the checkpoint of Rafael Freyre, a Transtur bus, a Willy jeep, and a wagon were involved.
Stunning images shared on social media revealed the deplorable condition in which the jeep was left.
"Accident on the Guardalavaca road in Holguín! It happened on the straight stretch before the checkpoint! Involved are a bus, a Willy, and a cart, and there are multiple victims!" initially alerted the moderator of the Facebook group "Accidents Buses and Trucks."
The information was later confirmed by Rolando Guerra Machín, the manager of the "El Purial Holguín" group, who pointed out that the incident happened “around midnight,” and that “there are presumably several victims”, although he did not provide specific details regarding the number of injured or deceased.
According to comments from witnesses and residents of the area, the incident reportedly resulted in the death of a minor, only 10 years old.
"The deceased boy was named Aron," wrote a concerned user.
It was also mentioned that "the bus driver is in critical condition," although his status has not yet been officially confirmed.
Regarding the bus involved, the news portal La Tijera specified that it was the Transtur bus. One netizen referred to the vehicle as "the hotel bus."
The Holguín-Guardalavaca highway is heavily trafficked by tourist buses, given its connection to the hotel zone along the northern coast of the province.
On social media, numerous users shared messages of support for the affected families and called for immediate measures. “May God place His hands, they are very good neighbors and friends,” expressed one user; “They are my neighbors, may God protect them and help them come out okay,” added another, although they did not specify the number or clinical condition of the injured.
Many residents agreed that the presence of carts on the road, especially without lights at night and not complying with regulations, is one of the recurring causes of accidents in that area.
"That's the fault of the cart; they always go down that road, and there are the consequences," "The cart is definitely to blame for not having lights or visible signals..." "Cars and carts do not follow traffic or hygiene regulations," commented three internet users.
Traffic indiscipline and citizen complaints
Criticism regarding the poor condition of the roads, lack of lighting, and the use of the highway by unregulated animal-drawn vehicles has been constant. “Holguín is the pasture of the parks,” wrote Fernando García in a viral comment.
Other users reported the lack of control and oversight: “The carts are now moving around at all hours of the night, many without lights, without anything, and when you see them, they are already very close.”
"The Guardalavaca-Holguín road is extremely narrow and full of twists... it's like a roller coaster," pointed out another user, highlighting the constant danger for drivers traveling the route, especially those connected to tourism.
In the face of pain and indignation, many voices demanded strong action from traffic authorities and local governments.
"Accidents are not really accidents, nor are they inevitable; they are a consequence of negligence," concluded another commentator.
As of the closing of this report, many questions remain regarding what transpired, particularly the total number of injured and wounded, as well as the alleged causes of the incident.
More fatalities from traffic accidents in Cuba in the first quarter of 2025
In recent days, unofficial sources reported that, up until the end of April, Cuba recorded 2,377 traffic accidents, which represents a decrease of 150 incidents compared to the same period in 2024.
However, the number of fatalities increased, despite the decrease in the number of injuries.
According to Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of the Specialized Traffic Body of the PNR, 91% of accidents are due to human factors, especially lack of attention while driving, disregard for right of way, and speeding, which accounts for 21% of deaths.
Sundays and Tuesdays are the days with the most fatalities, and the critical time frame is between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m.
A 25% increase in fatalities from motorcycle and moped accidents has also been reported, which now account for more than half of the incidents. Authorities have issued over 235,000 fines so far this year.
The Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, acknowledged that the results are not satisfactory and called for enhanced road education and an expansion of breathalyzer checks in public areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Serious Traffic Accident in Holguín, Cuba
What happened in the multiple accident in Holguín?
The multiple accident in Holguín involved a Transtur bus, a Willy jeep, and a cart on the road to Guardalavaca, resulting in several injuries and at least one minor deceased. The incident occurred in an area known for being dangerous due to the presence of carts without lights.
What are the main causes of accidents on the Holguín-Guardalavaca road?
The main causes of accidents on this road are the presence of carts without lights and failing to comply with traffic regulations, the poor condition of the roadway, and the lack of enforcement by the authorities. These factors increase the risk of accidents, particularly during nighttime hours.
How has the community reacted to the accident in Holguín?
The community has expressed its outrage and sorrow over the accident, demanding immediate actions from the authorities to improve road safety. The criticisms focus on the lack of control over the horse-drawn carts and the poor condition of the roads.
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