By Staff Reporter

HAVANA — Four passengers aboard a speedboat intercepted by Cuban authorities were killed during a confrontation with border guards, and all four were residents of the United States, officials confirmed Thursday.

Cuban state media reported that the vessel was stopped in waters north of the island after it allegedly failed to comply with orders from maritime patrol units. Authorities described the individuals on board as “armed,” claiming weapons were recovered following the incident.

According to officials, the speedboat was traveling at high speed and ignored repeated warnings before Cuban border guards opened fire. The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation, and details about the type of weapons allegedly found have not been independently verified.

U.S. authorities acknowledged the deaths and said they were seeking additional information from Havana. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State said the agency was “aware of reports involving U.S. residents” and is working to gather facts through diplomatic channels.

The incident occurred in the waters of the Straits of Florida, a heavily monitored maritime corridor between Cuba and the United States that has long been a route for migrants and private vessels. Tensions occasionally flare when boats are suspected of smuggling or unauthorized entry.

Cuban authorities characterized the operation as a lawful defense of national sovereignty. In a brief statement, officials said border forces acted “in accordance with established procedures” after the vessel posed what they described as a threat.

Human rights advocates and Cuban exile groups in the United States have called for a transparent investigation, arguing that the use of lethal force at sea warrants international scrutiny.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been publicly released pending notification of next of kin. U.S. officials said consular assistance is being offered to the families.

The shooting adds to the complex and often fraught relationship between Washington and Havana, particularly on issues involving migration and maritime enforcement.