KISSIMMEE, Fla. The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala held his funeral on Friday in Kissimmee. Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died last Wednesday from multiple blunt impact injuries. These injuries occurred after he rode the Stardust Racers roller coaster, which is part of Universal's upcoming Epic Universe theme park.
Mourners gathered at Funeraria San Juan. Many wore black to show their respect. Some carried flowers, while others brought lightsabers. These items honored Rodriguez Zavala's deep love for "Star Wars" and theme parks.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died from blunt impact injuries after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster.
- His funeral honored his passion for theme parks, roller coasters, and "Star Wars."
- Rodriguez Zavala was born with spinal cord atrophy but lived an independent life, helping others with disabilities.
- The family's legal team is requesting Universal keep the ride closed for further inspections.
- Universal has not commented on pending claims.
Remembering a Life of Passion and Service
Rodriguez Zavala was a Kissimmee resident. He had graduated from college with a degree in game design. His family and friends remember him for his enthusiasm for theme parks, roller coasters, and everything related to "Star Wars."
Attorneys representing the Rodriguez Zavala family confirmed that he was laid to rest with a lightsaber and a "Star Wars" hat. This was a direct request from his family.
"They're laying him to rest in the same way that he was in life," said Kareny Escobar. Escobar is a senior paralegal for the Ben Crump law firm, which is representing the Rodriguez Zavala family.
A Community Built on Gaming
Rodriguez Zavala's passion for gaming extended beyond his degree. He built an international community through gaming and streaming. Many people attending his funeral were part of this online network.
His family shared that he was born with spinal cord atrophy. However, they stressed that this condition never limited his life. Rodriguez Zavala lived independently. He drove, maintained a long-term relationship, and worked for over ten years. His work focused on helping other people with disabilities achieve independence.
Interesting Fact
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala's family operated the Osceola Developmental Center. This nonprofit helped over 1,000 young adults with disabilities find jobs, including positions at local theme parks.
Family's Request and Ongoing Investigation
The Rodriguez Zavala family's nonprofit, the Osceola Developmental Center, has a significant history of community service. "They've helped over a thousand people during the time that they've had this nonprofit," stated Natalie Jackson, co-director of litigation with the Ben Crump Law Firm.
Jackson noted that Universal has cooperated with the family's requests so far. The family has made a specific plea to Universal regarding the Stardust Racers ride.
"They would ask once again that Universal. Keep the ride down until all inspections are done. All preventative measures are put in place so that no other family has to go through what they've gone through today," Jackson explained.
Background Information
The Stardust Racers roller coaster is part of Universal's Epic Universe, a new theme park currently under construction. This incident highlights ongoing discussions around theme park ride safety and operational protocols.
Legal Team's Actions
Jackson confirmed that their legal team is working to schedule a visit to the Stardust Racers attraction. During this visit, experts from the law firm plan to examine and analyze the ride. This investigation aims to gather more information about the incident.
When Channel 9 asked Universal for comment on Friday, a representative stated that they "can't comment on pending claims." This is a standard response in cases involving potential legal action.
Community Impact and Future Steps
The death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala has deeply affected the Kissimmee community and the wider network he built. His life story emphasizes his resilience and dedication to helping others facing similar challenges.
The family's request for Universal to keep the Stardust Racers ride closed reflects their desire to prevent similar tragedies. This situation underscores the importance of thorough safety inspections for all amusement park attractions.
The legal process will continue as the law firm's experts prepare to inspect the ride. The outcome of these inspections and the ongoing discussions between the family's legal team and Universal will be important for understanding the full circumstances of this incident.
- The family seeks assurance that all safety checks are completed.
- The legal team will conduct its own expert analysis of the ride.
- Universal maintains a policy of not commenting on pending legal claims.
This event has brought attention to the safety measures in place at theme parks and the responsibilities of operators to ensure guest well-being. The community continues to mourn Rodriguez Zavala, remembering his spirit and his contributions.
