Cuban singer Rey Manuel reportedly shot dead on highway in suspected targeted attack

Cuban singer Rey Manuel has died after being fatally shot in the head on the National Highway, near the Nazareno Bridge in Mayabeque Province in Cuba.

According to a report in CiberCuba, a media outlet in Spain, the 41-year-old, who was renowned for his contributions to Cuban popular music, became a victim of a targeted killing. Reports suggested that he was shot in the head while kneeling as a result of a political vendetta.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, July 31, 2025, when Manuel was travelling to Havana with money for matters related to his business. He was with another person in a car owned by a well-known actor whose identity has not been revealed yet.

Rey Manuel’s death comes as a shock to his friends, family, and fans. Several users took to social media to bid farewell to him.

Keep reading to know more.

Tributes pour in from friends, fans, and family as Cuban singer Rey Manuel passes away

The news of Cuban singer Rey Manuel's demise has sparked an outpouring of tributes from his close ones, including his friends and co-actors, who are remembering him with heartfelt messages.

“This morning when I learned of your departure it hurt me a lot. You were a tremendous person and a fighter. EPD, rest Rey Manuel. I'm speechless.” Artist Kareldillo Durako wrote in Spanish (here translated in English).

“Rest in peace, my brother. You leave a deep sorrow in all of us who knew you. You were the king of serenades, a joyful soul who didn’t need a drink to make people laugh and bring rhythm to any corner of Cuba,” Armando Soler Valdés, a close friend of Rey Manuel wrote.

“RIP great human being and great singer.” A user on Facebook added.

“Very sad and shocking news. I'm from his town, he was known for his beautiful voice, he was a beautiful person, he got along well with everyone… no one has the right to take anyone's life... Justice should be done.... her poor mom... What a great pain.” Another person wrote.

“Your loss has been very strong and painful for all of us who knew you you didn't deserve to go like this. Rip King.” Someone else commented.

“Rip very sad and unfortunate news so young. Strength for your family.” Another user said.

Although Rey Manuel did not have a national media presence, he made constant appearances on private stages, events, and parties, particularly in the southern Havana area and other parts of western Cuba.

So far, no official statement has been issued by the authorities. More details are expected to be released in the coming hours, as per the report in Ciber Cuba.

It is not the first time that the death of a Cuban singer has been reported. In March, Mulatico Mulañé’s demise sent a wave of shock through the Cuban entertainment industry. He was reportedly killed while leaving a bar at 1st and 70th in Playa municipality. Exact details surrounding the crime remain unclear.

These incidents underscore the rising crime rate in Cuba, attributed to widespread hunger, poverty, and societal desperation.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback