The family of a 32-year-old man who died after riding the Stardust Racers at Universal's new Epic Universe theme park is demanding transparency from the company. During a press conference in Orlando, the family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, called for the ride to remain closed until the cause of the man's fatal injuries is fully understood.
Kevin Zavala lost consciousness on the attraction and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Preliminary reports have indicated that he sustained multiple blunt force injuries, a finding his family's legal team is now questioning.
Key Takeaways
- The family of Kevin Zavala, 32, held a press conference regarding his death after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe.
- Preliminary reports cite multiple blunt force injuries as a factor in his death.
- Attorney Ben Crump is representing the family and has called for Universal to cooperate fully.
- The family has requested the Stardust Racers ride stay closed pending a thorough investigation.
- Attorneys mentioned three other safety incidents reported in May, raising broader concerns.
Family Seeks Transparency from Universal
During the press conference, the family and their legal representatives outlined their primary goal: to understand exactly what happened to Kevin Zavala. They stressed the need for Universal Studios to provide all relevant information concerning the incident on the Stardust Racers ride.
Carlos Zavala, Kevin's father, spoke emotionally about his son's impact on the community. He described Kevin as an "incredible" person who was deeply involved in charity work. Notably, Kevin helped individuals with disabilities secure employment at local theme parks, making his death at one of these venues particularly tragic for the family.
A New Park Under Scrutiny
Epic Universe is Universal's newest and highly anticipated theme park in Orlando. The Stardust Racers attraction is a key feature of the park's Celestial Park area. The incident involving Kevin Zavala places a significant spotlight on the park's safety protocols and ride operations just as it prepares for its official grand opening.
Legal Team Questions Cause of Death
Attorney Ben Crump, a prominent figure in civil rights and personal injury cases, is leading the legal effort. He emphasized that the family's quest is for answers and accountability. The legal team is focused on the preliminary finding of "multiple blunt force injuries."
"Blunt force trauma is not a preexisting condition," stated attorney Natalie Jackson, a member of Crump's legal team. This statement directly challenges any potential suggestion that Zavala's death could be attributed to a prior health issue.
The legal team's primary request is for Universal to keep the Stardust Racers ride non-operational. They argue that the ride should not reopen until an independent investigation can determine how a passenger could sustain such severe injuries. This measure, they believe, is crucial for ensuring the safety of future guests.
Broader Safety Concerns Raised
The incident is not being viewed in isolation. Attorney Crump referenced official reports that may suggest wider safety issues. He pointed to three separate incidents reported to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) in May alone. While the specifics of these incidents were not detailed at the conference, their mention serves to build a case that there might be systemic safety concerns that need addressing.
Ride Safety Reporting in Florida
In Florida, major theme parks are required to report any ride-related injury or illness that requires a hospital stay of at least 24 hours. These quarterly reports are submitted to FDACS, which provides a degree of public oversight on theme park safety incidents.
The legal team indicated that they expected to begin a formal dialogue with representatives from Universal Studios on the day of the press conference. The outcome of these discussions will likely determine the next steps in the family's pursuit of information and potential legal action.
Community Remembers Kevin Zavala
The focus of the press conference remained on the personal loss experienced by the Zavala family. Kevin was remembered not just as a son, but as a valued member of his community. His work with a family charity highlighted his dedication to helping others, particularly in the same industry where his life ended.
His father's description of his character paints a picture of a man committed to creating opportunities for those who are often overlooked. This personal element adds another layer of complexity and sorrow to the ongoing investigation.
Funeral Arrangements
The family also shared details for those wishing to pay their respects. Funeral services for Kevin Zavala are scheduled for this Friday.
- Date: Friday
- Time: 10:30 am to 2:30 pm
- Location: Funeraria San Juan Funeral Home
- Address: 3189 S John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL
As the family prepares for the funeral, their legal team continues to press Universal for a transparent and thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragic outcome.
