A Nicaraguan-American dual national who died in a prison disturbance in Nicaragua served in the U.S. Navy and was a staunch opponent of the government of President Daniel Ortega, his cousin said.
Eddy Montes Praslin, 56, was shot dead Thursday at La Modelo prison outside the capital of Managua.
His cousin Marvin Montes told The Associated Press on Saturday that Montes Praslin moved to the U.S. when he was 13 years old, went to school in California and served in the Navy.
He also said Montes Praslin traveled back and forth between the two countries, establishing himself more permanently in Nicaragua since 2006.
At least 17 others who had been arrested for apparently participating in anti-government protests were wounded in the prison disturbance. The government said prisoners rushed at guards.