A 32-year-old man died on Wednesday night after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe. Authorities have released details regarding the incident, including the initial medical response and preliminary findings from the medical examiner.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Zavala, 32, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster.
- First responders found him unresponsive with a laceration and performed CPR.
- Medical examiner cited multiple blunt impact injuries as the cause of death.
- Zavala had a spinal injury requiring a wheelchair, according to the report.
- The Stardust Racers ride is currently closed as the investigation continues.
Incident Details Emerge from Orange County Report
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has made public the incident report concerning the death of Kevin Zavala. This report details the immediate aftermath of the event at the Universal Orlando theme park. Additionally, dispatch audio from the night has been released by the department.
According to the official incident report, emergency personnel responded to a critical situation. Firefighters and Universal Orlando Health Services staff were first on the scene. They found Mr. Zavala unresponsive on the ride platform. He also had a laceration.
Incident Timeline
- Wednesday Night: Incident occurs on Stardust Racers roller coaster.
- On-site Response: Firefighters and Universal Orlando Health Services provide immediate aid.
- CPR Administered: Responders perform CPR on the ride platform.
- Hospital Transport: Mr. Zavala transported to a local hospital.
- Pronounced Dead: Death confirmed shortly after 10 p.m. at the hospital.
Medical Findings and Ongoing Investigation
Mr. Zavala was transported to a nearby hospital following the incident. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the hospital after 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
The medical examiner has determined the cause of death. It was listed as multiple blunt impact injuries. The specific events leading to these injuries are still under active investigation by authorities. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is working to understand the full circumstances.
"The cause of death was multiple blunt impact injuries, according to the medical examiner. The cause of those injuries is still being investigated."
The incident report also noted a pre-existing medical condition. Mr. Zavala had a spinal injury that required him to use a wheelchair. It is not yet clear how this condition may relate to the incident on the roller coaster.
About Stardust Racers
Stardust Racers is a new roller coaster attraction located at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe theme park. Epic Universe is currently under development and is anticipated to open in 2025. Roller coasters of this type often feature high speeds, sharp turns, and significant drops. Safety protocols are a critical component of their design and operation.
Ride Closure and Safety Protocols
In response to the incident, the Stardust Racers roller coaster has been closed. This closure is temporary and will remain in effect while the investigation progresses. Theme parks typically close rides after serious incidents to allow for thorough examinations of equipment and procedures.
Theme park safety is governed by a combination of state regulations and industry standards. Rides undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Operators also receive training on emergency procedures and passenger safety. This incident highlights the importance of these safety measures.
Public Response and Community Impact
News of Mr. Zavala's death has prompted responses from the community. Many are expressing condolences and concern. The man who died is being remembered by those who knew him. One remembrance described him as 'one of a kind'.
Such incidents can raise questions about ride safety, even in new theme parks. Universal Orlando has a history of focusing on guest safety. Investigations like this are crucial for understanding what happened and preventing future occurrences.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office and Universal Orlando are cooperating fully. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues. The focus remains on determining the exact sequence of events that led to this tragic outcome.
Understanding Theme Park Safety
Theme parks implement strict safety protocols to protect riders. These include height and health restrictions, secure restraints, and emergency stop systems. Regular maintenance checks are performed daily, weekly, and monthly on all attractions.
For new rides, extensive testing is conducted before opening to the public. This testing involves running the ride empty and with weighted dummies to simulate passenger loads. Engineers and safety experts review all aspects of the ride's operation.
Despite these measures, incidents can occur. Investigations aim to identify if mechanical failure, human error, or a pre-existing condition contributed to the event. The findings help improve future safety standards across the industry.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Authorities will continue to analyze the incident report and dispatch audio. They will also review any available surveillance footage from the ride area. Interviews with witnesses and park staff are standard practice in such investigations.
The medical examiner's full report, including toxicology results, will provide more details. This information will be crucial for the Orange County Sheriff's Office to finalize its findings. The timeline for the investigation's completion is not yet known.
The closure of Stardust Racers allows investigators undisturbed access to the ride. This ensures all potential factors can be thoroughly examined. Universal Orlando will likely conduct its own internal review in parallel with the official investigation.
