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Universal Studios Faces Backlash Over Roller Coaster Safety

10/13/2025

Summary

Universal Safety Concerns

A fire on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal Studios Orlando last week led to demolition of the ride.
The cause remains unknown, but no injuries were reported.
32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died on the Stardust Racers coaster, which reopened after his death, raising concerns.
His family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, criticized Universal for reopening without inspections, and calls for safety regulations are growing in Florida.

Summary

Universal Lockdown Chaos

On October 12, during Halloween Horror Nights weekend, Universal Studios Orlando shuttered the parking garages, stranding guests.
Police were deployed and a lockdown was in effect, with staff providing no clear communication about the shutdown.
Guests faced long waits to access vehicles, with some walking miles to reach accommodations.
The episode raised concerns about crowd management amid the Epic Universe opening, and Universal has not clarified the shutdown's cause.

History

Historical Context

The tragic death of 12-year-old Caleb Schwab on the Verrückt slide at Schlitterbahn water park in 2013 led Kansas to enforce stricter amusement park safety regulations. This incident, alongside previous accidents at Universal Studios, including a 2004 fatality on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, underscores ongoing safety concerns and the growing demand for comprehensive oversight in amusement parks across the United States.

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Universal Safety Concerns

A fire on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal Studios Orlando last week led to demolition of the ride.
The cause remains unknown, but no injuries were reported.
32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died on the Stardust Racers coaster, which reopened after his death, raising concerns.
His family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, criticized Universal for reopening without inspections, and calls for safety regulations are growing in Florida.

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