ORLANDO, Fla. (WESH) – A Florida racing family is in mourning after a 7-year-old junior drag racer died following a crash at the Orlando Speed World Dragway.
Junior drag racer Elienisse Diaz Rodriguez, 7, was critically injured in a crash at the Orlando Speed World Dragway on Sunday and died of her injuries Tuesday night. She was part of a racing family well-known throughout Florida.
Elienisse’s devastated mother posted to social media, writing, “My sweet angel! Mommy will always love you forever!”
The crash happened during a junior dragster race held as part of “Funday Sunday,” a day of racing at the private racetrack sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office called in the Florida Highway Patrol to investigate. FHP says Elienisse was racing when she lost control of her dragster and struck a person working on the track then a concrete wall. The worker was not seriously hurt.
In an official statement online, track management said, “We are deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident that took place Sunday. Our thoughts and prayers are with Elienisse’s family. Motorsports is built on passion, but moments like these remind us of the risks that come with what we love.”
Elienisse was in the first grade at Eastland Christian School in Orlando. As soon as word of her death spread, the school provided counseling to students and staff.
“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,” the school said.
With FHP seeing no further need to investigate, Orlando Speed World planned to hold racing events through the weekend after the 7-year-old’s death.
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