American Man Driven by ‘Obsession’ with Cuban Freedom Killed in Shootout
HAVANA – A Florida man killed in a shootout with Cuban coast guard forces this week was described by his brother as being deeply committed to the cause of Cuban freedom, even to the point of obsession. Michel Ortega Casanova, a U.S. resident of over 20 years, died Wednesday along with three others when Cuban authorities opened fire on a speedboat attempting to reach the island.
The incident, which occurred approximately one nautical mile off Cuba’s northern coast, has sparked outrage from U.S. officials and calls for a thorough investigation. Cuban authorities claim those aboard the U.S.-registered vessel initiated the gunfire, injuring a commander. They allege the group was armed with assault rifles and Molotov cocktails and intended to infiltrate the country.
“They became so obsessed that they didn’t think about the consequences nor their own lives,” said Misael Ortega Casanova, Michel’s brother, from Miami. He added that the family was unaware of his brother’s plans and that his mother is “devastated.”
Cuban state media identified two other individuals on board as Amijail Sanchez Gonzalez and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gomez, alleging both were wanted in connection with terrorist activities. Authorities displayed an array of weaponry recovered from the boat, including rifles, handguns, explosives, and tactical gear.
The vessel itself was reported stolen from the Florida Keys, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Cuban officials stated all ten occupants were Cubans residing in the United States, and that many had “a known history of criminal and violent activity.”
The incident comes at a time of heightened tension between the U.S. and Cuba, with the island nation facing a severe economic crisis marked by shortages and soaring prices. A long-standing U.S. blockade has significantly impacted Cuba’s economy, and some officials believe the current government is increasingly vulnerable. Former President Donald Trump previously pursued policies aimed at further isolating Cuba and potentially triggering regime change.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has vowed to investigate the shooting, stating, “We’re not gonna base our conclusions on what they told us.” Florida’s Attorney General has also launched an investigation. Representative Carlos A. Gimenez called the shooting a “massacre” and demanded accountability.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. While Cuban authorities portray the group as a hostile force, some reports suggest the passengers were attempting to transport people to the island. The New York Times reported the group may have been part of a larger effort to help relatives leave Cuba.
The shootout raises questions about the use of lethal force against vessels in international waters and the potential for escalation in the region. The incident is likely to further complicate already strained relations between Washington and Havana.
