Cuba reports fifth death from U.S. speedboat shootout

Cuban authorities said on Thursday (March 5, 2026) that a fifth crew member of a U.S.-flagged speedboat involved in a shootout with the coast guard last week has died of his wounds.

Winter Heating Solutions

Solimo 2000/1000 Watts Room Heater

Adjustable thermostat • ISI certified • Ideal for small to medium rooms

📦 Featured Product Recommendation

Below is a top-recommended product you can buy on Amazon — support us by using the link below (we earn a commission at no extra cost to you).

🔗 Buy on Amazon

* Shop with confidence — Amazon Affiliate Link

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.* 1

Check Price on Amazon

RR Signature WARMAXX Room Heater

Dual heating mode • Overheat protection • 5-level safety • 2 year warranty

View on Amazon

Borosil 2000W Novus Electric Fan Heater

Made in India • Variable temperature • Horizontal & vertical placement

See Details on Amazon

*Affiliate links. No extra cost to you.

Prosecutors have filed terrorism charges against the surviving crew members of the boat, suspected of trying to bring weapons to Cuba in hopes of destabilizing the communist government in Havana.

One of the six survivors, identified as Roberto Alvarez Avila, “died on March 4 from wounds he received,” the Interior Ministry said in a statement on state TV.

The shootout occurred on February 25 when a coast guard boat approached the vessel to demand identification, and the crew responded by opening fire.

The Cuban coast guard shot and killed four other people aboard the boat, which came within one nautical mile of the Caribbean island’s shores.

Cuban officials say the speedboat, registered in the United States, was carrying firearms of various calibers, including 14 rifles, 11 pistols and nearly 13,000 rounds of ammunition.

The Interior Ministry added that the investigation into the incident was advancing with the cooperation of U.S. authorities, “including evidence sharing and other joint actions.”

At least two of those aboard the speedboat were U.S. citizens, one of whom was killed.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has made no secret of its desire for regime change in Cuba, imposing an energy blockade after the ouster of leftist autocrat Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, which was the communist island’s top supplier of oil.