Luis S. Vielma: ‘A true friend,' student at Seminole State

J.K. Rowling sent flowers, note to Vielma's family

Luis Vielma, 22, was a student at Seminole State working at Universal.

Luis S. Vielma, 22, was studying to be a physical therapy assistant at Seminole State College before he fell victim to the gunfire at Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016.

Vielma was also working at Universal Studios Orlando, where he operated the Harry Potter ride, The Forbidden Journey.

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His death struck a chord with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.

The day after the shooting, Rowling tweeted, "Luis Vielma worked on the Harry Potter ride at Universal. He was 22 years old. I can't stop crying. #Orlando"

Rowling also sent flowers to Vielma's family with a note that read, "To Luis, who died for love.  You will never be forgotten. J.K. Rowling."

Two days after his death, co-workers and friends raised their wands near the Hogwarts castle at Universal Studios in his honor.

Friends called Vielma a true friend who was always there for them.

High school friend Eddi Anderson told the Tampa Bay Times that Vielma loved his job at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and was known for his pleasant attitude and warm demeanor.

Vielma "just wanted to make people smile," said another co-worker, Olga Glomba.

 


About the Author:

Erik Sandoval joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2013 and became an Investigator in 2020. During his time at News 6, Erik has covered several major stories, including the 2016 Presidential campaign. He was also one of the first reporters live on the air at the Pulse Nightclub shooting.

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