US Opens Investigation After Deadly Shooting Near Cuba
WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2026 — The United States has launched an investigation after Cuban authorities reported a deadly exchange of gunfire involving a Florida-registered speedboat near Cuba’s coast.
Rubio Confirms Federal Review
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday that American officials are reviewing the incident and will independently confirm the details shared by Havana. He spoke to reporters while attending a Caribbean leaders’ summit in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Rubio explained that Cuban officials informed Washington about the shooting earlier in the day. In response, US authorities immediately began examining the situation.
“At this stage, the Department of Homeland Security and the Coast Guard are involved, along with other agencies,” Rubio said. He added that much of the available information currently comes from Cuban authorities.
Furthermore, the US Embassy in Havana is working to identify whether those on board were American citizens or permanent residents. Officials are also seeking access to the individuals involved.
“According to Cuban authorities, the boat was registered in Florida. We are verifying that information,” Rubio said. He emphasized that Washington will not rely solely on Cuba’s version of events.
“We will confirm the facts independently. Once we have clearer information, we will respond accordingly,” he added, while declining to speculate.
Florida Launches Separate Probe
Meanwhile, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that his office has opened its own investigation into the maritime incident.
He directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to coordinate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Uthmeier criticized the Cuban government and pledged accountability.
Cuban Account of the Incident
Earlier, Cuba’s Interior Ministry stated that its border guards confronted a Florida-registered speedboat after it entered Cuban territorial waters. According to Cuban officials, border forces exchanged gunfire with the vessel.
As a result, four people on board the boat died, and six others sustained injuries. Cuban authorities also reported that one of their officers suffered injuries during the incident.
Rising Tensions Between Washington and Havana
The incident occurred during a period of strained relations between Washington and Havana. The administration of President Donald Trump has increased economic pressure on Cuba. At the same time, the United States has expanded maritime operations in the Caribbean.
US officials say these operations target vessels suspected of drug trafficking and other illegal activities. Consequently, the latest shooting could further complicate already tense relations between the two countries.
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