7-year-old drag racer loses control on track and dies days later, Florida cops say

A 7-year-old drag-race driver who crashed at a Florida track died “after fighting for her life for two days,” a family spokesperson said.

Elienisse Zoe Díaz Rodriguez “fulfilled her dream of driving her Junior Dragster” race car the morning of Feb. 2 at Orlando Speed World Dragway, according to a GoFundMe for her family and the Florida Highway Patrol.

But at about 11 a.m. during the event called Funday Sunday, the girl lost control of her car and hit a safety guide worker before crashing into a concrete wall, troopers said.

Elienisse was taken to a hospital, where she died Feb. 4, Highway Patrol said.

The 34-year-old worker who was injured in the crash, as well as a third person, were both taken to a hospital, according to Orange County Fire Rescue.

“We are deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident that took place at OSW on Sunday,” Orlando Speed World Dragway said in a statement. “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.”

A family spokesperson called Elienisse their “beautiful princess.” She was a first-grade student at Eastland Christian School.

“She was a bright light in our school community, and we are thankful for the time we had with her,” the school said in a statement. “Her beautiful smile will be deeply missed by all of us.”

This story was originally published February 6, 2025 at 5:46 PM with the headline "7-year-old drag racer loses control on track and dies days later, Florida cops say."