SAN ANTONIO, TX – A 17-year-old high school junior has died from catastrophic head injuries sustained after falling from a moving vehicle during a San Antonio Spurs playoff celebration on Thursday night.
Tragic Accident on the South Side
Jose Luis Rodriguez III was participating in a rolling “honking celebration” on San Antonio’s South Side following the Spurs’ victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. According to family members, Rodriguez was hanging out of a vehicle when he lost his grip, falling onto the street and suffering severe brain trauma.
Emergency responders rushed the teenager to a nearby hospital, where he was later declared brain dead. On Tuesday, his family made the heartbreaking decision to remove him from life support.
Community Mourns and Warns Fans
Rodriguez, a passionate sports fan, was described by his aunt, Victoria Lopez, as a young man ready to make something of himself in the world. Following the tragedy, the Rodriguez family is urging the community to prioritize safety during ongoing sports celebrations.
“Everyone please be careful out there. Stay in your cars. If you’re in a vehicle, wear your seatbelt,” his uncle, Moses Rodriguez, pleaded.
Officials and Players Call for Safety
The tradition of rowdy street parading—dating back to 1999—has prompted serious safety warnings from local officials. As the Spurs advance, the San Antonio Police Department issued a strict reminder to fans:
- Follow all traffic laws.
- Remain completely inside vehicles at all times.
- Follow directions from law enforcement officers on scene.
Spurs players have also joined the call for caution. During a recent press conference, team officials and players urged the fanbase to celebrate responsibly, emphasizing that excitement should never compromise public safety.
