Full Breakdown
Investigation Underway Following Roller Coaster Death at Universal's Epic Universe
9/25/2025, 2:44:48 AM
Incident Overview: Death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala
On September 17, 2025, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort's newly opened Epic Universe theme park. Zavala, who had a spinal condition and used a wheelchair, became unresponsive during the ride and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The Orange County Medical Examiner ruled the cause of death as "multiple blunt impact injuries," categorizing the incident as accidental.
Background: Stardust Racers and Safety Protocols
Stardust Racers is a dual-launch roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet. Universal Orlando's safety guidelines indicate that the ride is unsuitable for guests with back, neck, or similar physical conditions. Despite this, Zavala was reportedly assisted onto the ride by staff using a transfer device, and there were no explicit restrictions communicated to him regarding his ability to ride.
Official Statements & Responses
Karen Irwin, President of Universal Orlando Resort, stated in an internal memo that the ride "functioned as intended" and that all safety protocols were followed. She emphasized that the equipment was intact throughout the ride. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services corroborated these findings, noting that their initial investigation aligned with Universal's assessment.
Family's Perspective and Legal Actions
Zavala's family, represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, has expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding his death. They are demanding a thorough investigation and the release of maintenance logs, inspection records, and ride data. Crump stated, "A man died after boarding a ride that should have been safe," and emphasized the need for transparency to prevent future tragedies. The family has also set up a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses, which has raised over $27,000.
Criticism & Opposition: Safety Concerns Raised
Crump and his legal team have raised questions about the safety of the ride, arguing that just because it did not malfunction does not mean there were no safety issues. Witnesses reported seeing Zavala's head strike a metal bar multiple times during the ride, leading to blunt force trauma. Crump stated, "Safety is more than whether a machine is broken," highlighting potential failures in the ride's restraint system.
Ongoing Investigations
The Orange County Sheriff's Office is investigating Zavala's death under Florida's manslaughter statute, which is standard procedure for non-natural deaths. This investigation aims to determine if any negligence occurred, either criminal or non-criminal. Both Universal and state investigators are conducting comprehensive reviews of the incident, with the ride remaining closed during this process.
Conclusion: Seeking Answers
As investigations continue, Zavala's family is focused on ensuring that no other families experience a similar tragedy. They are advocating for the ride to remain closed until a full understanding of the incident is achieved. The case underscores the importance of safety protocols in amusement parks, particularly for guests with disabilities. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.
