A Cuban resident in the United States expressed her outrage in a video posted on TikTok upon learning about the case of five young Cubans accused of murdering a man during a robbery in Austin, Texas.
“I would want to bury my head in a bucket of shame seeing fellow Cuban compatriots from my homeland doing these kinds of things here in the United States,” lamented the user identified as lizethika_opina, whose testimony has been well received among the migrant community.
In her message, the woman recalled how difficult it is to reach the United States, after facing dangers such as the Darién or years of family sacrifices, only to see young people with a bright future ahead wasting the opportunities that this country offers.
"I wish I had arrived here at 17, at 15, at 20... maybe today I would be the owner of a boutique or a great doctor. There are opportunities for young people here, the language is easier to learn, there are paths to grow. Why become criminals?" she asked, filled with pain.
The Cuban woman reported that crimes such as thefts and murders tarnish the image of the immigrant community and make life more difficult for those who only seek to work and get ahead. "There is no need to steal even a pin in this country. Through hard work, one can live, pay for food, clothing, and even a cruise. Why tarnish immigrants and Cubans with these actions?" she questioned.
The crime that sparked outrage
The woman's statements came to light following the case of five Cubans detained in Texas for the murder of Miguel Mondragón, a 49-year-old man who was ambushed and shot on August 3rd in Austin.
The accused, identified as Alejandro Hurtado-Reyes (22), Yanaris Reyes (29), Antonio González (17), Yurisander Góngora Rojas (19), and Héctor Yohany Achang Batlle (19), are facing charges of capital murder.
According to the police, they were part of a gang that targeted Hispanics, taking advantage of many immigrants' fear of reporting due to their immigration status.
The Mondragón family has demanded justice and raised concerns about the low bonds that could allow the accused to be released.
"They have us in their sights."
The TikToker emphasized that every headline about Cubans involved in crimes impacts the entire community. "Stop making mistakes so that immigrants and Cubans aren't in the eye of the hurricane. It bothers them so much when people are deported, and yet they do these things. So why do they bother?", she said with frustration.
His complaint reflects the sentiments of many migrants who work hard to build a life in the United States and feel that events like this tarnish the collective image.
"It’s a shame, it’s a pain, because we know what it takes to get here. And for a few, we all end up being pointed out,” he concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Crime of Five Cubans in Texas
Who are the accused of the murder in Austin, Texas?
The accused are Alejandro Hurtado-Reyes (22 years old), Yanaris Reyes (29 years old), Antonio González (17 years old), Yurisander Góngora Rojas (19 years old), and Héctor Yohany Achang Batlle (19 years old). They all face capital murder charges for the homicide of Miguel Mondragón during a robbery attempt in Austin.
What was the reason behind the murder of Miguel Mondragón?
The murder occurred during an attempted robbery. The accused ambushed and shot Mondragón while he was trying to escape, subsequently stealing his personal belongings. The gang primarily targeted Hispanics, taking advantage of the fear many immigrants have of reporting due to their immigration status.
How has the Cuban community in the United States reacted to this crime?
The Cuban community has expressed outrage and shame over the crime committed by its compatriots. Many Cubans in exile have raised their voices on platforms like TikTok, lamenting that these acts tarnish the image of immigrants who work hard to get ahead in the United States.
What actions has the victim's family, Miguel Mondragón, taken?
The Mondragón family has demanded justice and raised concerns about the low bail amounts that could allow for the release of the accused. They have urged the community to report if they have been victims of similar thefts to strengthen the case against the accused. Additionally, they have organized activities to provide financial support for the children of the deceased.
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