Pickup Truck Burns in Havana’s Wajay
On March 8, 2025, a pickup truck caught fire in the Wajay area of Havana, Cuba, causing alarm among residents. According to social media reports, the vehicle, identified as a modern model, was quickly consumed by flames near the entrance of the INAV neighborhood.
A pickup truck consumed by fire in Havana, Cuba.
The fire is believed to have started due to a short circuit in the vehicle’s electrical system, igniting the seat. Despite efforts by onlookers, the fire spread rapidly, resulting in the total loss of the truck. A large plume of black smoke was visible from a distance.
In the aftermath, local residents provided assistance. Jorge Moreno and Saúl Salcedo reportedly collected the vehicle without charging for the service, demonstrating community spirit. Hours later, the truck was removed from the scene, revealing the extent of the damage.
This incident adds to a series of recent vehicle fires, prompting concerns about the condition of cars on Cuban roads. Earlier this year, an electric motorcycle explosion caused a fire that destroyed several vehicles in Santa Clara, including a Lada and two “almendrones.” Additionally, recent bus fires in the Cuban capital and Santiago de Cuba highlight the potential for such incidents.
These events have raised questions about the factors contributing to these fires, including vehicle maintenance and electrical system reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why did the truck catch fire in Wajay, Havana? The fire appears to have been caused by a short circuit in the electrical system, which ignited the seat. This is becoming a more frequent issue in Cuba because of inadequate maintenance and electrical problems in many vehicles.
How frequent are vehicle fires in Cuba? Reports of vehicle fires have increased in recent months. These incidents are primarily caused by electrical failures, inadequate maintenance, and issues with electric vehicle batteries, raising concern about the current condition of the automotive fleet.
What measures are being taken to prevent these fires? No official measures have been reported by the Cuban government. However, regular maintenance, attention to potential electrical failures, and having a fire extinguisher are recommended.
How did the citizens react to the truck fire? Supportive citizens offered assistance and recovered the vehicle without charge, demonstrating community aid in emergency situations.
