A man died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal's Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, was found unresponsive on Wednesday night after the ride. He was transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. An autopsy revealed the cause of death as "multiple blunt impact injuries," and the manner of death has been ruled an accident.
The incident has led to the temporary closure of the Stardust Racers attraction as authorities and park officials investigate. This event marks a significant safety concern for the newly opened theme park, which debuted in May.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died after riding Stardust Racers.
- Cause of death was "multiple blunt impact injuries," ruled an accident.
- The Stardust Racers roller coaster is currently closed.
- Family has launched a GoFundMe for funeral expenses.
- Florida's largest theme parks conduct their own safety inspections.
Incident Details and Investigation
Orange County deputies confirmed that Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive after experiencing the Stardust Racers attraction. First responders rushed him to a local hospital. Despite medical efforts, he died.
Joshua Stephany, the Orange-Osceola Chief Medical Examiner, conducted the autopsy. He stated that the injuries were consistent with "multiple blunt impact injuries." The official ruling categorizes this as an accidental death. Details surrounding the exact nature of these injuries have not been fully disclosed.
Fast Fact
The Stardust Racers roller coaster reaches speeds up to 62 mph and a height of 133 feet. It features a dual-launch system and approximately 5,000 feet of track.
Witness Account of the Event
Maria Fernandez, a guest who was on the Stardust Racers ride at the same time as Zavala, shared her experience with News 6. She recounted hearing screams for help after the ride concluded.
"When I was on the ride, the travel finishes, and one girl starts to say, 'Help! Help! Help!'" Fernandez explained. "The girl was screaming, and we didn't understand what happened."
According to Fernandez, security personnel began to escort riders off the roller coaster shortly after the incident became apparent. She described seeing Zavala slumped over and bleeding, with what appeared to be a broken leg. She speculated that he might have been deceased at that moment.
Family Remembers Kevin Rodriguez Zavala
In response to the tragedy, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala's family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser aims to assist with funeral and memorial costs during this challenging period. The family describes Zavala as a compassionate and supportive individual.
The GoFundMe post, titled "In Loving Memory of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala," highlights his character. It states, "He was truly one of a kind. He had an old soul—wise beyond his years—with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding. He was the kind of person who always made time to listen, offer thoughtful advice, and lift others up, even when he was facing challenges of his own."
"His presence lit up every room, and his absence leaves a space no one can fill," the family's post reads.
The outpouring of support reflects the impact Zavala had on those around him. The fundraiser seeks to ease the financial burden on his loved ones during this difficult time.
About Epic Universe
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando Resort's newest theme park, which opened its doors in May. It features five distinct themed sections and a 500-room hotel. This park is the first major traditional theme park to open in Florida since Universal Islands of Adventure debuted in 1999. Its addition increases the total number of parks at the Florida resort to four, including Universal Studios.
Universal's Response and Park Safety Protocols
Universal Parks & Resorts issued a statement following the incident. A spokesperson expressed deep sorrow and offered condolences to Zavala's family. The park has confirmed its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The Stardust Racers attraction remains closed as the investigation continues. This closure allows authorities to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding Zavala's death and ensure the safety of the ride before it potentially reopens.
Florida Theme Park Safety Regulations
Florida's largest theme parks operate under specific safety regulations. Unlike smaller amusement venues and fairs, major theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal are exempt from direct state safety inspections. Instead, these large parks are responsible for conducting their own inspections and maintaining internal safety protocols.
However, these parks are mandated to report any serious injury or death to the state authorities. This reporting requirement ensures that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is informed of incidents, allowing for oversight and potential investigation.
Previous Incidents at Epic Universe
Records from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services indicate other guest experiences at Epic Universe that required reporting. In May, a 32-year-old man reported significant chest pain after riding Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.
Furthermore, in June, two separate incidents occurred on the Stardust Racers attraction. One involved a 63-year-old man who experienced dizziness. The other involved a 47-year-old woman who reported a "visual disturbance." Both individuals had pre-existing medical conditions, and their incidents occurred on different days.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has acknowledged the current incident. The agency stated that an investigator is on site and Universal is cooperating fully. This remains an active investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
- May: 32-year-old man experienced chest pain on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.
- June: 63-year-old man reported dizziness on Stardust Racers.
- June: 47-year-old woman experienced a "visual disturbance" on Stardust Racers.
These previous reports highlight the importance of understanding ride safety and personal health conditions when visiting theme parks. Park officials consistently advise guests to review all safety warnings and restrictions before riding any attraction.
