Racing cars isn’t the kind of activity you’d think of for a child. No one is allowed to legally drive before they’re at least 16 years old, so it’s hard to imagine an elementary school student behind the wheel of a car. But a young drag racer in Florida has lost her life after having an accident in her race car.
The elementary school student was training to be a junior drag racer at the time of the crash. Now, instead of preparing for a race, they’re planning a funeral.
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Seven-year-old Elienisse Zoe Díaz Rodriguez was at Orlando Speed World on February 2, 2025, when she lost control of her Junior Dragster race car, the Florida Highway Patrol told People. The outlet obtained a statement from Orange County Fire Rescue saying it responded to a 911 call from Orlando Speed World.
“A pediatric patient was transported as a trauma alert to Arnold Palmer Hospital and another patient was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center, ALS (Advanced Life Support),” the statement read. “A third patient was also transported to Advent Health East with non-life-threatening injuries.”
According to Fox 35, the young drag racer hit a safety guide employee before striking a concrete wall. After being taken to Arnold Palmer Hospital, the girl died on February 4. A GoFundMe set up for the family states that Elienisse was declared “brain dead.”
The fundraiser also notes that the girl “fulfilled her dream” of being a junior drag racer.
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“We are deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident that took place at OSW on Sunday,” Orlando Speed World wrote in a statement shared on Facebook. “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,” the statement continued. “While injuries can heal, the pain of loss is immeasurable. We stand together in support, mourning, and prayer during this difficult time.”
Eastland Christian School, where Elienisse was a first grade student, released a statement about her death, shared by Fox 35.
“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.,” the statement read. “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.”
“We ask that you join us in lifting them up in prayer and support,” the statement continued. “May we surround them with love and comfort as they navigate through this unimaginable loss.” The school also stated that it is providing services to anyone grieving who wants support.
According to reporting from The Independent, junior dragsters can reach speeds of up to 85 mph.
