The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man who died after being found unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe, is seeking answers about the incident. Rodriguez Zavala, described by his family as a fully independent theme park enthusiast, was pronounced dead at the hospital after the event last week.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died after an incident on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe.
- His family describes him as independent and a "roller coaster freak," emphasizing his spinal condition did not limit his activities.
- Civil rights attorney Ben Crump is representing the family, demanding to know the cause of death.
- Universal Orlando and state investigators state ride systems functioned as intended.
- Funeral services are scheduled for Friday in Kissimmee, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched.
Details of the Incident and Family's Plea
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was discovered unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe. This occurred last week. He was then transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump is representing the family. At a news conference, Crump stated, "we have to know what happened" to Rodriguez Zavala. He emphasized that Rodriguez Zavala had no medical emergency before getting on the ride.
"No medical emergency, he was just fine," Crump said regarding Rodriguez Zavala's condition before the ride.
Crump insists that Rodriguez Zavala's spinal condition, which led to his use of a wheelchair, was unrelated to his death. He highlighted that Rodriguez Zavala was capable of driving and held a bachelor's degree, demonstrating his full independence.
Incident Snapshot
- Name: Kevin Rodriguez Zavala
- Age: 32
- Location: Stardust Racers roller coaster, Epic Universe
- Date: Last week
- Cause of Death (Medical Examiner): Accidental, citing multiple blunt impact injuries.
A Life Described as Full and Independent
Rodriguez Zavala's family members shared details about his life. They painted a picture of a vibrant, independent individual who loved theme parks. His mother, Ana Zavala, spoke emotionally about her son.
She stated in Spanish that she never placed limits on him, despite his condition. She described him as a very happy person. The family affectionately teased him, calling him a "roller coaster freak" due to his passion for rides.
According to his mother, the last day of his life, September 17, was filled with joy. His girlfriend, who works for Universal Studios, had arranged tickets for them to visit the park. He expressed great happiness about the visit.
Kevin's Independence
Despite a spinal cord injury and using a wheelchair, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lived a fully independent life. He drove, earned a bachelor's degree, and pursued his interests, including a strong passion for theme parks and roller coasters. His family consistently supported his desire to live without limits.
His sister, Lisa Cruz Rodriguez, also spoke, remembering her brother as an "old soul." She recalled a video call from him on the morning of the incident. During the call, he expressed his excitement about being at the theme park with his girlfriend. He even showed her a new purchase from the Ministry of Magic.
"I just want him to be OK," Lisa Cruz Rodriguez said, reflecting on her brother.
The siblings shared birthdays just two days apart, a detail that now holds profound sadness for Lisa. His brother, Michael Rodriguez, shared that they had plans to play video games later that night. Michael mentioned his last text from Kevin expressed anticipation to leave the park to join him online. Michael said he cannot bring himself to play video games after this event.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Universal Orlando officials confirmed that Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. The medical examiner has confirmed the death was accidental. The cause cited was multiple blunt impact injuries.
Following the incident, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort, sent a letter to team members. In the letter, Irwin expressed condolences to the family and those affected. She also stated initial internal findings.
According to Irwin, "Our hearts are with our Guest's family and loved ones, and with all of you who have been impacted by the tragic loss." She added that internal investigations so far confirm that the ride systems functioned as intended. The equipment was intact at the start of the ride, throughout its duration, and upon the vehicle's return to the station.
State investigators' initial findings support Universal's conclusions. They align with the assessment that the ride systems performed correctly.
Family's Call for Transparency
Despite these statements, Ben Crump and the family are pushing for more transparency. They want to understand the exact circumstances that led to Rodriguez Zavala's death. The family believes his spinal condition played no role in the incident.
This ongoing inquiry highlights the complex nature of such incidents. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations in theme park safety.
Community Support and Funeral Arrangements
The family has described Kevin as "truly one of a kind." They highlighted his "old soul" and a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding. He was known for making time to listen and offer thoughtful advice.
His family said he was a source of warmth and pride to his parents. As a brother and uncle, he brought laughter, guidance, and unconditional love. As a friend, he was loyal, thoughtful, and always present.
Funeral services for Kevin Rodriguez Zavala are scheduled for Friday. They will take place at San Juan Funeral Home in Kissimmee. The community is invited to attend and celebrate his life. Additional details about the services will be released soon.
To assist with funeral and memorial expenses, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign. This initiative aims to gather support from the community during this difficult time. It reflects the community's desire to honor Kevin's memory.
- Funeral Service: Friday, 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- Location: San Juan Funeral Home, Kissimmee
- Community Invitation: All are welcome to attend.
- Support: A GoFundMe campaign is active for expenses.
The family's determination to seek answers remains strong. They hope to prevent similar tragedies for others. This developing story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
