Investigation into the death of a Cuban in a police shooting in Iowa; community demands to see videos of the incident

The pain and indignation mark the Cuban community in Denison, Iowa, after a police shooting claimed the life of Feglys Antonio Campos Arriba, a migrant from the Island of Youth who was going through a personal and mental health crisis.

Neighbors and compatriots assert that Feglys, who had a calm demeanor, posed no threat to anyone.

He had recently lost his job and, amidst the difficulties, had moved to a park near his home, where he was trying to survive outdoors. There, on the night of August 15th, was where the fatal encounter with a police officer occurred.

"We knew he wasn't in a good mental state. Those of us who knew him understood that he wasn't a dangerous man. It's sad that he ended up in this situation. We demand answers," stated one of the area residents.

The Cuban community in Denison reacted immediately. This Sunday, a group of compatriots went to the local Police Department to seek explanations. However, they did not receive answers, as the case was handed over to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI).

The only official statement, issued by the Crawford County Emergency Management office, was limited to confirming the ongoing investigation and noted that no further details would be provided at this time.

The journalist Alberto Arego shared on social media the distress of the migrants. “We are deeply hurt by what has happened (...) We know that we all want immediate answers, but the investigation process is slow. Nonetheless, it is our right as a community to demand clarity and transparency,” they said.

Arego also shared a police report stating that Campos "was reluctant to cooperate" and that a physical confrontation occurred in which the officer was injured. During the altercation, the officer fired his weapon and the Cuban died at the scene. The police officer was taken to a hospital, treated for his injuries, and released.

The official statement adds that the investigation is in the hands of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), which will forward the case to the Crawford County Attorney's Office and the State Attorney General's Office for review once it is completed. Meanwhile, the involved officer is on paid administrative leave, as per internal policy.

Other Cubans, such as Yaite Lazo, a resident of Austin, have publicly demanded the release of the images from the body cameras of the involved officers.

"Today we raise our voices demanding justice for the death of a defenseless human being who was not in full possession of his mental faculties. We cannot remain silent in the face of what has happened. As Latinos, as immigrants, and as human beings with rights, we demand that the images be made public so that the truth can come to light," he wrote on social media.

The call for justice extends beyond Iowa. Among the messages shared, the idea stands out that Feglys's death “cannot go unpunished” and that his memory deserves respect. “This is not just another name; it is about a Cuban brother, about life and youth, who deserves justice,” expressed his compatriots.

Meanwhile, the community is also trying to contact the deceased's relatives in Cuba to manage the repatriation of the body, a painful step that adds to the demand for transparency.

The story of Feglys, shaped by migration, loneliness, and mental health challenges, has now become a symbol of the fight for dignity for Cubans in exile.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Death of Feglys Antonio Campos Arriba and the Response from the Cuban Community in Iowa