Teenager killed in motorcycle accident in Santiago de Cuba

A Cuban teenager died instantly after being hit by a motorcycle in the city of Santiago de Cuba early Sunday morning. The victim of the fatal accident has been identified as Kevin Quiala Suarez16, who was beaten after leaving a bar where he was hanging out with neighborhood friends, according to a Facebook post by the journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada.

One of Quiala's close friends told the reporter that the young man “apparently did not notice the motorcycle coming and was hit.” According to Mayeta's message, the motorcyclist “also suffered serious injuries from the impact and is in critical condition in a city hospital.”

According to information shared by Mayeta, Quiala's body will be kept in a cold room until the arrival of his family members living abroad, but it will be briefly exposed for a wake. The sudden death of the teenager has deeply affected his family, friends, classmates and teachers.

A friend, Maria Carla Benitezexpressed his sadness on social media: “I still can't believe you're gone, brother. You know you were always there for me through thick and thin, and I was there for you. My Tank, wherever you are, I will always hold you in my heart because you were more than a friend; you were a brother to me.”

In a comment on Mayeta's post, a young man identified as Yover More Hard Guibertwho was with Quiala at the time of her death, expressed his shock at the tragic event: “I have never seen a motorcycle hit someone so violently. I haven't slept thinking about it. We had just started a friendship and I am truly sorry for her family and friends. My condolences.”

Guibert shared a photo and video of the group of friends at the bar and claimed that the deceased “wasn't drunk or anything like that; he just crossed the street without looking, and there was no time to react. It happened right in front of me.”

Dayana EstradaOne of Quiala's teachers, also expressed the pain felt by his teachers and classmates: “Kevin, rest in peace. The teachers and students of Grade 9 2 are very sad. We will always remember you, my boy. Your teacher Dayana carries you in her heart.”

Another teacher, Yanet Constanten continuescommented that he was “a boy with a strong but very noble character and with very good feelings. It is really painful to see such a dynamic life interrupted. On behalf of all your general education teachers and classmates, we extend our deepest condolences to your family and friends. The pain is immense, but God must have a beautiful place for you in heaven. Rest in peace.”

Many expressions of grief and condolences to the family over the teenager's untimely death have been posted on social media since news of the tragic event broke.