Man in Guantánamo loses his life in his own home after confronting thieves during a blackout

The city of Guantánamo woke up shaken this Thursday upon learning of the death of Eraine Zaya Murcado, a beloved neighbor in the community, known by many as "40 y 20," who lost his life inside his own home after surprising some burglars during a blackout.

The news was initially spread by the content creator Marlon Guantánamo, who also published a video taken inside the home on social media. The images, which contain sensitive content, sparked a wave of outrage among friends and family, who accused the creator of disrespecting the family and requested the removal of the material.

"How could you upload that video without our permission? It's disrespectful. You don't know what we are going through," claimed his niece Greter Cuesta, reflecting the pain the family is experiencing.

The incident occurred at 12 Sur and 5 Oeste, an area that was completely dark due to a power outage. According to the testimony of neighbors, the criminals took advantage of the darkness to enter the home. Eraine had reportedly gone out to the patio after hearing noises, and upon confronting the intruders, lost her life on the spot.

A hardworking man, loved and respected

Those who knew "40 y 20" agree that he was a noble, hardworking, and respected man. Many remember him for his presence at the cockfighting events, where he sold rum and was well-loved for his cheerful demeanor and his way of "throwing the party."

“Good man, good friend, a true fighter… he achieved what he had with sacrifice,” wrote a close one. “He was an amazing person, loved by all. It hurts our souls,” expressed another.

Even those who did not know him personally have mourned his death upon witnessing the extent of the affection he inspired. "What a great pain. It is clear he was a good person," commented a neighbor.

"Good friend, good brother, above all, he was a very strong fighter," wrote Yaunier Dandicourt, while Iván Rodríguez expressed his outrage: "How long are we going to keep losing good friends at the hands of criminals? What is this government doing to prevent these tragedies?"

Even from a distance, painful farewells arrived. "Your nephew loves you very much, you took a piece of me with you," wrote his niece Cuesta.

Growing fear due to insecurity and power outages

The death of Eraine has rekindled the fear among residents regarding the increasing insecurity in Cuba, especially during the prolonged night blackouts that leave entire neighborhoods completely vulnerable.

"The insecurity and violence in this country are truly frightening; blackouts are used as a tool for a bunch of malicious individuals to extinguish innocent lives," denounced Yaismin Laborde.

Other neighbors agreed that they don't even feel safe within their own homes. "It's too much already. There's no security in the house with those criminals," lamented Erobis García.

While the community demands answers and justice, friends and family are trying to come to terms with the loss of a man who, according to all accounts, was respected, beloved, and hardworking.

Cuba has been experiencing an energy crisis for years, resulting in increased power outages and, consequently, the growing fear of thousands of families who feel increasingly vulnerable in their own homes.