A state investigation is underway following the death of a 32-year-old man at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe theme park. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala of Kissimmee, Florida, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster on September 17. The Orange County Medical Examiner has identified the cause of death as "multiple blunt impact injuries."
Key Takeaways
- A man died after riding the Stardust Racers coaster at Epic Universe.
- The cause of death was determined to be "multiple blunt impact injuries."
- The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is investigating.
- The Stardust Racers attraction remains closed since the incident.
Incident Details and Investigation
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe. This occurred on September 17. Emergency services transported him to a local hospital. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Orange County Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy. On Thursday afternoon, the office confirmed the cause of death. It was listed as "multiple blunt impact injuries." The incident has been ruled an accident.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is leading the investigation. An investigator arrived at Epic Universe on September 18. FDACS is responsible for inspecting amusement rides across Florida. However, this excludes large parks that employ over 1,000 people and have their own full-time inspection staff.
"Universal has been extremely cooperative and has complied with all required notifications. This is an ongoing investigation, and more information will be released as it is available," said Aaron Keller, FDACS Communications Director, in a statement.
Fact: State Oversight
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services inspects amusement rides. This applies to most parks. However, major theme parks like Universal Orlando, which employ over 1,000 staff and have dedicated safety teams, typically manage their own inspections. Despite this, FDACS responds to serious incidents to conduct independent investigations.
The Victim and Community Response
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was 32 years old. His family created a GoFundMe page on September 18. The campaign aims to cover funeral and memorial expenses. It quickly gained support from the community.
The GoFundMe description described Zavala as a compassionate person. It noted his wisdom and ability to support others. The family highlighted his resilience in facing life's challenges. As of September 19, the campaign had raised $13,074, approaching its $16,000 goal.
Community Support
The establishment of a GoFundMe page demonstrates the immediate impact of such a tragedy. It allows friends, family, and even strangers to offer financial and emotional support during a difficult time. This community response is common in cases of unexpected loss.
Universal Orlando's Response
Universal Orlando issued a statement on September 18. The park expressed its sorrow over the event. It extended sympathies to Mr. Zavala's family and loved ones. Universal confirmed its full cooperation with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the ongoing investigation.
The statement also confirmed the closure of the Stardust Racers attraction. It has remained closed since the incident. Universal Orlando has not yet announced when the ride might reopen.
About Epic Universe and Stardust Racers
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando's newest theme park. It is located at 1001 Epic Boulevard in Orlando, Florida. The park opened in May, marking the first new theme park in Orlando in over 25 years. It represents a significant expansion for Universal Orlando Resort.
Stardust Racers is a prominent attraction within Epic Universe's Celestial Park section. It is a dual-launch racing roller coaster. The ride reaches speeds of 62 miles per hour and climbs to a height of 133 feet. It features approximately 5,000 feet of track.
Ride Manufacturer and Safety Guidelines
The Stardust Racers coaster was manufactured by Mack Rides, a German company. Maximilian Roeser, Head of Marketing for Mack Rides, stated the company was "deeply saddened by the tragic incident." He confirmed that Mack Rides is in close contact with Universal Orlando and authorities. They are actively supporting the investigation.
Universal Orlando's website lists specific requirements for guests riding Stardust Racers:
- Guests must be able to independently maintain an upright position.
- They must support their torso, neck, and head during sudden movements.
- Bracing the body with at least one natural upper extremity is required.
- Both natural legs must extend below the ankle when seated. Prosthetic limbs are not permitted.
- Guests must be able to step into the ride vehicle compartment, with or without assistance from a companion.
- There is a minimum height requirement of 48 inches (4 feet).
Amusement Ride Safety Protocols
Industry experts have discussed what happens after a serious amusement ride incident. Jim Seay, president and owner of Premier Rides, a company that designs and manufactures theme park attractions, explained the typical process.
Parks usually notify state authorities and the ride's manufacturers. These parties then collaborate to determine the cause. Third-party experts may also be involved. According to Seay, mechanical and electrical failures are a small component of incidents. Human error or guest behavior often play a larger role.
"Mechanical and electrical failures end up being probably the smallest component of what can create an incident," Seay noted.
If a mechanical failure is identified, manufacturers have a duty to inform other parks with similar equipment. They provide details on necessary steps before those rides can operate again. This ensures widespread safety.
Jakob Wahl, president and CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, stated that rides can reopen if investigations confirm no failure in the ride system itself. Safety inspectors conduct thorough checks. In some cases, parks may choose to permanently close a ride after a serious accident, even if it is deemed safe.
The Stardust Racers attraction remains closed as the investigation continues. Universal Orlando has not provided a timeline for its potential reopening.
