"I saw the lady asking for help and I rushed out to assist in any way I could. I didn't even put on a shirt. When I arrived, it was truly chaotic," reported Marlon Paneque Gutiérrez, a young resident on Merchán Street in Manzanillo, Granma.
He was one of the first to act when a large fire swept through three houses in his neighborhood last Wednesday.
Marlon didn't hesitate to rush in to save whatever he could: "We only saved a fan and the television; everything else was lost because we were in great danger inside the house. I'm not a hero at all: I did it because I felt I had to," he stated humbly.
His testimony, shared by journalist Roberto Mesa Matos on social media, reflects the everyday courage with which many Cubans face emergencies with nothing but their will and sense of community.
The fire occurred on Villuendas Street, between San Silvestre and Caridad. Although official media such as Radio Granma and regime-affiliated journalists did not specify the cause of the fire, residents have indicated that it may be related to the use of wood and charcoal for cooking, due to the prolonged blackouts and the energy crisis affecting the eastern region.
Israel Antonio Bárzaga Machado, a volunteer firefighter and also a member of the Red Cross, participated in the firefighting efforts.
"Yes, we feel fear, but we control it because that's what we are trained for. One fire is not like another. This one was complicated because it was an old, very sturdy wooden house," he explained.
He also highlighted the role of the people: “Here, we are all one family. The best part is that we do not mourn the loss of human life.”
Local authorities recognized the swift actions of the firefighters, police, and the community, which prevented the flames from spreading to other buildings.
But beyond the official applause, what stuck in the minds of those who witnessed the scene was the determination of young people like Marlon and Israel, who acted without waiting for rewards.
As fires linked to precarious conditions in homes without electricity or gas continue to grow, this story not only highlights the spontaneous heroism of these young Cubans but also the vulnerability of thousands of families exposed to danger while trying to survive in a country without basic guarantees.
The tragedy has sparked a wave of solidarity among Cubans both inside and outside the country. As reported by journalist José Ortiz Benet on Facebook, neighbors from the municipality and Cuban residents in the United States have already begun sending donations to the affected families.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fire in Manzanillo, Cuba
What happened in the Manzanillo fire?
A large-scale fire swept through at least three homes in the city of Manzanillo, Granma. Fortunately, no human lives were reported lost, but there was significant material damage.
What were the causes of the fire in Manzanillo?
Although the authorities have not yet confirmed the official causes, it is suspected that the use of firewood and charcoal for cooking, due to the energy crisis, may have been a triggering factor of the fire.
How did the neighbors react during the fire?
The neighbors showed great courage and solidarity in the firefighting efforts alongside the firefighters. Young people like Marlon Paneque Gutiérrez acted without hesitation to save lives and belongings, which prevented a greater tragedy.
What impact did the energy crisis have on the Manzanillo fire?
The energy crisis in Cuba has forced many families to use dangerous methods such as firewood and charcoal for cooking, which increases the risk of fires in homes, like the one that occurred in Manzanillo.
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