Related videos:
The disappearance and subsequent discovery of the lifeless body of little Nelson Thiago García Lugones, who was only six years old, shook the community of El Chumbo in the municipality of Alquízar, province of Artemisa, since the end of October, and sparked a wave of outrage throughout Cuba.
In the last few hours, journalist José Luis Tan Estrada confirmed that the alleged murderer of the minor has turned himself in to the authorities.
It is about a man identified as "Juan Carlos," approximately 50 years old, who - according to sources close to the case cited by the journalist - is the "father of the mother's lover of the child."
The news, already shocking in itself, is further complicated by the details that have begun to emerge: rumors of a cover-up, suspicions of a larger involvement; and above all, the heartbreaking loss of a child who, according to those who knew him, was cheerful, active, and beloved by his community.
A tragic discovery
Thiago was reported missing on Monday, October 20 in the afternoon after leaving to play near his home. Hours later, past midnight, his body was found inside a deep well, without shoes, covered in weeds and concealed with a sheet of zinc.
The fact that the child was found in that location—hidden, difficult to access, and showing signs of having been camouflaged—immediately raised strong suspicions that it was not an accident.
The community, which actively participated in the search, expressed its grief and anger over what many have deemed a crime since the beginning.
Social media was flooded with messages calling for justice for Thiago.
Cover-up or actual guilty party?
Although "Juan Carlos" surrendered to the authorities – as Tan Estrada has now reported – a significant part of the public opinion questions the direct responsibility of the man who would have surrendered.
Some users suggest that the true perpetrator of the crime could be her son, described as the "lover" of the child's mother, and that he might be taking the blame to protect him.
"For me, the son is the author of such an atrocious crime... and the father took the blame," "That man has no reason to kill a child who belongs to no one close to him. The most logical thing is that he is covering for someone more connected," were some opinions in that regard.
This shift in suspicions has intensified social pressure for the authorities to delve deeper into the investigation and fully clarify the case.
The situation of Thiago's mother has also been a subject of debate, not always with empathy. Some comments indirectly blame her for the people she allowed into her life and the child's environment. Others, on the other hand, demand respect and compassion in light of her loss.
"She already has too much to suffer from," wrote an internet user while asking the journalist to remove a comment about her private life.
Tan Estrada replied cryptically: “If you only knew…,” suggesting that there is sensitive information that has not yet been disclosed for ethical reasons.
This exchange has generated even more interest in uncovering the full truth behind the case, although it also highlights the tension between the right to privacy and the public's right to be informed.
Collective pain and a cry for justice
Social media has become an emotional outlet for hundreds of people. Most are calling for the application of the maximum penalty, even the death penalty, which is still in effect under Cuban law, although it is not commonly used.
"Let him pay with the maximum sentence," "Children must not be touched," "That monster deserves the firing squad," several internet users shouted.
Comparisons with other tragedies, the fear of predators lurking in the family environment, and the call for exemplary measures have been recurring themes in the commentary.
As of the publication of this note, official media have not confirmed the arrest of the alleged perpetrator in the death of the child Thiago.
Filed under: