The brother of an American man who died in a daring boat clash with Cuban forces has described his sibling as driven by an “unending and wicked” desire to free the island, asserting that “no one knew” his intentions.
Michel Ortega Casanova, an American truck driver, was one of ten people aboard a Florida-registered boat that reportedly engaged Cuban soldiers attempting to enter the island. Having lived in the U.S. for over 20 years, Ortega Casanova was one of four fatalities in this incident. He leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, mother, brother, two sisters, daughter, and an unborn grandchild.
Additionally, six passengers, all Cubans residing in the U.S., sustained injuries.
His younger brother, Misael, noted that the pursuit of Cuban freedom consumed Michel to the point where he and others didn’t fully consider the risks involved. “They got so caught up in it that they stopped thinking about the consequences and their lives,” Misael expressed. He also mentioned that the family was not familiar with the other individuals on the boat, but was hopeful that, perhaps one day, their efforts could lead to a free Cuba.
Misael declined to refer to the group as heroes, saying that such labeling seemed misplaced. Cuban authorities have pointed out that many passengers were known for criminal and violent behaviors. Two individuals, Amihail Sánchez González and Leodan Enrique Cruz Gómez, were wanted for alleged involvement in terrorist activities within or outside Cuba.
Cuban official Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla spoke out, stating that a thorough investigation is underway to uncover the specifics of the incident, emphasizing that Cuba has dealt with numerous incursions since 1959. He mentioned the significant human and material toll these incursions have caused, asserting the necessity of defending national security.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated efforts are underway to verify if the individuals on the boat are American citizens or permanent residents. He characterized the occurrence as unusual—gunfights at sea are rare, especially near Cuba.
Rubio also confirmed that the U.S. is actively investigating the situation, with input from Homeland Security and the Coast Guard. Vice President J.D. Vance acknowledged that he had been briefed and expressed hope that the situation wouldn’t escalate further. Florida Attorney General James Usmayer mentioned that prosecutors would cooperate with multiple agencies during their investigation, stressing a commitment to accountability regarding the Cuban government.
