Havana, Cuba – In a tragic incident in the municipality of Regla, Yordanis Javier Despaigne, a survivor of a lithium battery explosion, is currently in critical condition and urgently requires blood donations of type A or B positive. The explosion, originating from a motorcycle battery charging beneath a bed, resulted in a fire claiming the lives of 13-year-old Andy Casanova and his sister Keyla Casanova, 16, who was Despaigne’s girlfriend.
Reports suggest that Keyla may have secretly charged the battery without her mother’s knowledge, leading to unforeseen fatal consequences. The blaze also left other family members injured, with the Regla community rallying together to support a grieving mother who lost two children in a devastating instant.
Cuban journalist Mario Vallejo highlighted the heartbreaking scene at the family’s residence, where friends gathered to console the mother. Vallejo urged his audience to spread the word in hopes of saving Despaigne, emphasizing the challenges faced by many Cubans due to the high cost of replacing motorcycle batteries.
The surge in electric scooter-related fires in Cuba has sparked concerns among the public and authorities alike. Lieutenant Colonel Jorge García Arbelo from the Villa Clara Fire Department pointed out that negligence in battery usage, substandard repairs, and disregard for safety protocols are significant contributors to these incidents.
García emphasized the importance of adhering to manufacturer instructions, such as allowing batteries to cool before charging and avoiding overnight charges. He also highlighted the limited availability of spare parts in Cuba, leading to makeshift repairs that compromise safety standards.
The tragic event in Regla serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with improper battery handling and the pressing need for enhanced safety measures within the Cuban community. As the nation grapples with a rising number of motorcycle battery-related incidents, education and adherence to guidelines are essential in preventing further tragedies.