US citizens were on stolen boat in deadly shooting with Cuba's coast guard

Cuban military forces gunned down passengers aboard a stolen U.S. speedboat, killing at least one confirmed American citizen.

The 24-foot vessel was stolen from Big Pine Key in the Florida Keys. Its owner reported the theft after reporters contacted him about the deadly clash off Cuba’s coast.

The suspected thief was a man working on a tile renovation project for the boat’s owner. He left his truck behind near the dock and has family in Cuba, including two young daughters still on the island.

Four people died and six were wounded in the confrontation. Cuban authorities claim the boat’s occupants opened fire first on coast guard personnel, prompting return fire.

At least one additional U.S. citizen was among the injured and is receiving medical care in Cuba. Passengers included individuals with criminal records, legal permanent U.S. residents, and one holder of a current K-1 fiancé visa.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the U.S. is conducting its own investigation and has formally requested access to the injured passengers held by Cuban authorities.

The killing of a U.S. citizen by Cuban troops aboard a stolen American vessel marks a grave escalation.