Chula Vista Mourns 8-Year-Old Baseball Player Mattviel “Chubby” Rodriguez After Tragic Scooter Accident
CHULA VISTA, CA — July 14, 2025 — Heartbreak has swept through the city of Chula Vista following the sudden and tragic death of 8-year-old Mattviel “Chubby” Rodriguez, a beloved youth baseball player who was fatally struck by a vehicle while riding his electric scooter on Saturday, July 13.
The devastating incident occurred in a quiet residential neighborhood where Chubby was enjoying a sunny afternoon ride. Despite swift efforts by emergency responders, the young boy succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The driver involved remained at the scene, and authorities have confirmed an ongoing investigation.
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Mattviel, known to many as “Chubby,” was more than just a child — he was a shining light in his community. A proud member of the Ramona Pony Baseball League and the 🦏 Rhinos youth team, Chubby was celebrated for his infectious energy, boundless enthusiasm, and genuine love for the game of baseball.
“He was the soul of our dugout,” said one of his coaches. “He played hard, smiled harder, and made sure everyone around him felt like family. You could feel his joy just being near him.”
Always wearing his favorite color — blue — and never far from his baseball glove, Chubby represented everything good about youth sports: passion, camaraderie, and heart.
A City in Mourning
News of Mattviel’s death has deeply impacted residents, teammates, and local leaders, many of whom are now voicing concern over traffic safety in residential areas. The accident has sparked calls for immediate action to protect children in neighborhoods, including the installation of additional signage, traffic calming measures, and lower speed limits.
“Our hearts are broken,” said a neighbor. “This can’t happen again. Kids deserve to feel safe riding their bikes and scooters outside their own homes.”
Chula Vista city officials have acknowledged the outcry and pledged to reevaluate traffic safety protocols in the area.
Supporting the Rodriguez Family
In the days following the tragedy, the community has rallied behind the Rodriguez family with an outpouring of love and financial support. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and ongoing needs, receiving donations and messages of comfort from across the region.
“We can’t express how grateful we are for the support,” a family member shared. “Mattviel was our heart, our joy. The love we’re receiving means the world.”
Donations can be made at [Insert GoFundMe link].
Candlelight Vigil to Honor Chubby
To honor the life, laughter, and legacy of Mattviel “Chubby” Rodriguez, a candlelight vigil will be held on Wednesday, July 16 at 7:30 PM at Memorial Park in Chula Vista.
Attendees are encouraged to wear:
• Ramona Pony Baseball jerseys
• Rhinos team hats
• Or blue, Mattviel’s favorite color.
Important Location Notice:
Due to other scheduled events, visitors are asked to use the Water District or Elm Street entrances and avoid the Rodeo Grounds area if possible.
The vigil will include speeches from his coaches and teammates, the release of blue balloons, and moments of silence and prayer as the community gathers in unity to remember a young life filled with promise.
Rest in peace, Mattviel “Chubby” Rodriguez. You will always be our MVP.