WESLACO, Texas —The Weslaco community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Larissa Rodriguez, a student and cheerleader at Weslaco High School, who was found lifeless early Monday morning.
According to preliminary reports, authorities responded to a call near Paso in Weslaco, where Larissa was discovered unresponsive. Emergency personnel confirmed her passing at the scene. Details surrounding the circumstances of her death have not yet been released, and an investigation is currently underway.
Larissa was well-known among her peers for her bright spirit, leadership on the cheer team, and dedication to her studies. Teachers and friends describe her as “a light to everyone around her” and “the heart of the Wildcats cheer squad.”
Weslaco ISD officials issued a statement Monday afternoon expressing condolences to Larissa’s family and classmates. “Our hearts are broken. We extend our deepest sympathy to the Rodriguez family and to all who knew and loved Larissa,” the statement read. Counselors will be available on campus this week to support grieving students and staff.
As the community comes to terms with this tragedy, friends have begun organizing a candlelight vigil to honor Larissa’s memory at the Weslaco High football field Tuesday evening.