An entire community is grieving the tragic loss of Mattviel Rodriguez, affectionately known as “Chubby,” an eight-year-old boy who died Sunday afternoon after being struck by a car while riding an electric scooter in an Otay Ranch condominium complex in Chula Vista, California.
Mattviel was visiting family when the heartbreaking incident occurred, leaving loved ones and neighbors devastated. The accident happened within a residential complex that lacks sidewalks and posted speed limits, prompting renewed concern over traffic safety in the area.
According to the Chula Vista Police Department, Mattviel was riding his electric scooter alongside a relative on an electric bike when he was hit by a vehicle driven by a man in his 50s who also resides in the complex.
Witnesses rushed to help. Norliza Rodriguez, a resident of the complex, recounted the terrifying moment. “I heard a scream from a boy, and my husband came up to me in my home office and said there was an accident,” she said.
The couple, along with another neighbor, used car jacks to lift the vehicle off Mattviel while they waited for emergency responders. “My husband came back here, took the jack and did his thing, and then lifted the car a little bit while I was there with the kid, talking to him. I told him, ‘Hang in there. We’re here, just don’t move.’”
Mattviel was rushed to Rady Children’s Hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he tragically died from his injuries. Police are investigating the incident as a traffic collision, not a criminal matter. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities.
Police confirmed that alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in the accident. The devastating event has reignited community concerns over speeding and driver awareness in the complex.
“She lives here with two little boys, so it’s already been a concern of hers,” said one resident, referring to her daughter, who had previously proposed adding speed bumps at a homeowners association meeting to improve safety for children.
Although the City of Chula Vista recently passed an ordinance banning children under 12 from operating electric scooters and bikes, the regulation has not yet taken effect. The tragedy has emphasized the urgent need for safety enforcement and infrastructure changes in residential areas.
Mattviel, remembered lovingly by his family and community, was known for his bright spirit and love of life. He was a member of the Sweetwater Valley Little League, who shared a touching tribute on Facebook:
“Our entire baseball family mourns this unimaginable loss.” His cousin told CBS8, “He loved making people laugh. He was in love with playing baseball and his favorite team was the Padres. He was the best kid ever — smart, kind, helpful.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Rodriguez family during this incredibly difficult time. The outpouring of love and condolences reflects just how deeply Mattviel touched the lives of those around him.
The community continues to mourn a child full of potential whose life was cut far too short. In honoring his memory, many are calling for lasting changes to protect other children and prevent future tragedies.
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