Thousands Expected At Unofficial Fan Tribute To Paul Walker, Roger Rodas
VALENCIA (CBSLA.com) — Thousands of people are expected to show up for an unofficial tribute Sunday near the site where Paul Walker and Roger Rodas died in a fiery single-vehicle collision last weekend.
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Fans have organized a mid-day memorial rally and car cruise near the crash site on Hercules Street. It's scheduled to run from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
One week since the fatal crash, crowds continue to gather at the growing memorial. Sheriff's deputies have parked along the street and erected cones to help control traffic near the site, which remains inundated with candles, flowers and cards.
Deputies are expecting the largest crowds to date on Sunday. More than 7,000 people have RSVP'd to attend the event on Facebook.
"Our first date together together was to the first "Fast and the Furious" movie at Citywalk the week it premiered," said one fan from San Diego, who came to the memorial Saturday night because she is scheduled to work Sunday. "So it just kind of holds a special place in our heart."
The Sheriff's Department has put up signs warning of traffic delays. Beginning at 10 a.m., a stretch of Kelly Johnson Parkway near the crash site will become one-way, and westbound traffic on Constellation Road and Alta Vista Avenue will be halted, except to access local businesses.
Organizers are asking fans to be respectful and obey traffic laws.
Many local businesses have blocked off their parking lots, but North Park Community Church is offering its lot and restrooms to the public.
Fan Arbil Panelo told KCAL9's Cristy Fajardo he plans to attend regardless of the traffic and parking constraints.
"I met Paul last month at a Formula Drift," Panelo said. "I just gave him a handshake and that was it, and next thing you know he's gone."
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