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The family of a 17-year-old Texas cheerleader is suing a beverage distributor in a wrongful death case, alleging the teen died after consuming high amounts of caffeine from energy drinks that caused an enlarged heart. Larissa Nicole Rodriguez, a college-bound high school student from Weslaco, died in October. Her family’s attorney said a Hidalgo County medical examiner determined the cause of death was an enlarged heart linked to stress and excessive caffeine intake. Officials in Hidalgo County did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The lawsuit claims Rodriguez regularly consumed Alani Nu energy drinks and that the products carried insufficient warnings about potential cardiac risks. It seeks more than $1 million in damages and was filed in Hidalgo County District Court. Rodriguez had no known pre-existing heart conditions, and her attorney said toxicology testing found no drugs or alcohol, stating caffeine was the only substance detected. The family described her as a high-achieving student, cheerleader, and athlete with a bright future that was cut short.
The suit names beverage distributors Glazer’s Beer and Beverage and Glazer’s Beer and Beverage of Texas, alleging they were responsible for distributing the product without adequate warnings. The distributors did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Celsius Inc., which owns Alani Nu, expressed sympathy for the family, saying it prioritizes product safety and includes caffeine content and usage warnings on its labeling, including advisories that the drink is not recommended for children or those sensitive to caffeine.
According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez was influenced by social media promotion of the drinks and reportedly consumed at least one per day over the past year, sometimes more. The filing also alleges the product was marketed toward young women and minors as a lifestyle and wellness beverage despite its caffeine levels. The family says their goal is to raise awareness and prevent similar tragedies in other households.
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