A Cuban man who was found floating on a small raft off Key Biscayne is “fortunate to be alive,” authorities said.
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The man was found alone on the raft on Monday about 16 miles east of Key Biscayne, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations officials said.
A photo released by CBP showed the man floating on a small piece of what appeared to be Styrofoam being held together by wood planks and rope.
🚨A Cuban national is fortunate to be alive after being found alone on a small raft approximately 16 miles east of Key Biscayne, Florida, on October 12.
A good Samaritan reported the sighting over VHF Channel 16, our Miami and Fort Lauderdale marine units and the U.S. Coast Guard responded and located the individual and provided emergency assistance. He was evaluated by EMS, medically cleared by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, and transferred to the USCG Cutter Melvin Bell for further processing.
This incident underscores the extreme danger of attempting illegal maritime migration. The open water is unforgiving, and these journeys can quickly become fatal.
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— CBP AMO (@CBPAMO) October 13, 2026
Officials said a good Samaritan spotted the man and alerted authorities.
CBP and U.S. Coast Guard crews responded and the man was medically evaluated by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue before he was transferred for further processing.
“This incident underscores the extreme danger of attempting illegal maritime migration,” CBP officials said. “The open water is unforgiving, and these journeys can quickly become fatal.”
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