ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — An Orange County family is mourning the loss of a 7-year-old girl who died following a junior drag racing accident on Sunday.
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The family of Elienisse Zoe Díaz Rodriguez said she passed away from her injuries after an accident that happened at Orlando Speed World Dragway “While she fulfilled her dream of driving her Junior Dragster.”
According to FHP, around 11 a.m. on Feb 2, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office requested troopers respond to an incident at the Speed World Dragway.
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Troopers said that a 7-year-old girl was riding on the track when she lost control of her Junior Dragster Racecar, striking a safety guide employee, and then crashed into a concrete wall.
The 7-year-old was transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital where she fought for two days before succumbing to her injuries. She was pronounced dead on Feb. 4.
The safety guide employee, a 34-year-old Orlando man was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
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Troopers said the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) will be taking over the investigation into the crash.
Orlando Speedworld posted this statement on its Facebook page:
“We are deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident that took place at OSW on Sunday. Our thoughts and prayers are with Elienisse’s family, and all those affected, including our racing community. Motorsports is built on passion, but moments like these remind us of the risks that come with what we love. While injuries can heal, the pain of loss is immeasurable. We stand together in support, mourning, and prayer during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to those grieving and will continue to uplift them in our thoughts.”
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Elienisse was also a student at Eastland Christian School, which released the following statement about her passing:
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news that our beloved first-grade student, Elienisse Diaz, passed away last night at 10:54 p.m. She was a bright light in our school community, and we are thankful for the time we had with her. Her beautiful smile will be deeply missed by all of us. Our hearts go out to her family during this incredibly difficult time, and we ask that you join us in lifting them up in prayer and support. May we surround them with love and comfort as they navigate through this unimaginable loss. For anyone in need of grief support, our chaplain will be available to offer assistance and guidance during this time of sorrow. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you or your child need someone to talk to. We will hold Elienisse’s memory close to our hearts. Thank you for your understanding and support as we come together to mourn this loss and remember the joy she brought to all of us. With deepest sympathy.”
The racetrack shared a verified GoFundMe account that is raising money to support the family.
CLICK HERE, for the GoFundMe link.
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