FBI Investigates Deadly Speedboat Shootout in Cuba

A technical team from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrived in Cuba on April 1, 2026, to conduct an independent investigation into a deadly shootout that occurred on February 25. The incident involved a Florida-registered speedboat carrying ten Cuban nationals, who were allegedly armed and attempted to enter Cuba with the intent to destabilize the government. According to Cuban authorities, the boat was intercepted by a patrol of the Cuban border guard, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the deaths of five individuals from the boat and injuries to one Cuban soldier.

CNNFBI visits Cuba to probe US speedboat shoot-out: US officialReuters

The Cuban government reported that the speedboat was armed with nearly 13,000 rounds of ammunition, 13 rifles, and 11 pistols. The confrontation began when the Cuban patrol, consisting of five border guards, spotted the incoming vessel approximately one nautical mile off Cuba's northern coast. The crew of the speedboat opened fire on the patrol, injuring the captain, who continued to steer the boat towards the attackers, resulting in a close-range firefight.

Reuters

The U.S. Embassy in Havana stated that the FBI's visit was part of a "thorough and independent investigation" into the events surrounding the shootout. An embassy official emphasized that the U.S. would not base its decisions on information provided by Cuban authorities, asserting the need to independently verify the facts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the incursion was not a U.S. operation and that no U.S. government personnel were involved.

Reuters

Cuban officials have accused the assailants of being Cuban exiles, some of whom have been previously identified as terrorists. They claim that the individuals aimed to create chaos and attack military units. The Cuban government has charged the five survivors with terrorism, alleging they sought to overthrow the government. Critics of U.S. policy towards Cuba argue that the incident reflects ongoing tensions exacerbated by the Trump administration's actions, including a de facto oil blockade imposed in January 2026.

The Straits Times

There are discrepancies regarding the number of casualties reported. While Cuban authorities stated that five members of the speedboat crew died, U.S. officials confirmed that at least one deceased individual and one survivor were U.S. citizens. Additionally, Cuban authorities typically do not recognize dual citizenship, complicating the identification of the individuals involved.

CNN

The FBI's investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the shootout and the involvement of U.S. citizens. As the situation develops, it may further impact U.S.-Cuba relations, which have been strained in recent months. The outcome of the investigation could lead to additional diplomatic discussions regarding security and cooperation between the two nations.

FBI Probes Deadly Cuba Boat Shootout