Authorities have closed the investigation into the death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who died in September while riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Epic Universe. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has concluded that no criminal acts occurred, ruling the death accidental.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died on Stardust Racers in September.
- Orange County Sheriff’s Office ruled the death accidental, closing the case.
- Zavala had a pre-existing spinal condition and used a wheelchair.
- Universal's internal review found ride systems functioned properly.
- Stardust Racers reopened on October 4, weeks after the incident.
Investigation Concludes No Criminality
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office provided a final update regarding the death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. He passed away on September 17 while on the Stardust Racers attraction at Universal Epic Universe.
Officials confirmed that their investigation found no evidence of criminal acts. This determination led to the closure of the case, as stated by a representative for the Sheriff's Office.
"The report concludes that Mr. Rodriguez Zavala’s death was accidental, and the case has been closed. Because it was determined that no criminal acts occurred in this case, this concludes the Orange County Sheriff’s Office role in this case."
Details from the Report
The report from the Sheriff's Office detailed the condition of Mr. Zavala upon the ride's return to the station. He was found unresponsive with severe facial trauma.
The report noted that Mr. Zavala was "stuck on the ride vehicle face down, falling out of the seat, with legs inverted." It also mentioned "other abnormalities" that appeared to be defects to both legs.
Fact Check
- Victim: Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32
- Date of Death: September 17
- Cause: Multiple blunt impact injuries
- Ride: Stardust Racers, Universal Epic Universe
- Official Ruling: Accidental, no criminal acts
Eyewitness Account and Medical History
Deputy Tria Rojas spoke with Javiliz Cruz-Robles, Mr. Zavala’s girlfriend of 10 years. Ms. Cruz-Robles provided an account of the incident to the deputy.
She stated that as the ride began its first downhill section, Kevin "flew forward, striking his head." She also observed him hitting his head multiple times and attempted to hold him back.
Initial police reports and recordings indicated that Mr. Zavala had a pre-existing spinal condition. He was also on medication, later identified as Baclofen, at the time of the incident.
Background on Mr. Zavala
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala used a wheelchair and had a known spinal condition. This medical history was noted in police reports following his death on the Stardust Racers roller coaster.
Universal's Internal Review and Ride Reopening
Universal Epic Universe, the resort's newest theme park, reopened the Stardust Racers attraction on Saturday, October 4. This occurred weeks after Mr. Zavala's death and after multiple investigations were conducted.
An internal staff memo from Universal head Karen Irwin, obtained by media, addressed the incident. The memo stated that Universal conducted comprehensive reviews.
These reviews involved the ride system manufacturer and an independent, third-party roller coaster engineering expert. Universal's own team and local authorities also participated.
Universal's Findings
Karen Irwin's email conveyed sympathy to Mr. Zavala's family. It also praised the team's professionalism during the investigation.
The memo highlighted that Universal's "comprehensive technical and operational review" confirmed the ride systems functioned properly. This included the boarding process, the ride's duration, and its return to the station.
It also noted that Universal Team Members followed all established procedures throughout the incident.
Post-Incident Actions and Legal Claims
Upon the ride's return, an individual was heard mentioning "lacerations" on Mr. Zavala's body. CPR was performed by several people at the Stardust Racers station.
Mr. Zavala was then transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Following news of Mr. Zavala's death, a separate lawsuit was filed against Universal by a woman claiming injury on Stardust Racers months prior. Attorney Ben Crump, representing the Zavala family, stated that there were "warning signs that there was something wrong with the design of this ride."
About Stardust Racers
Stardust Racers officially opened to the public in May. It is one of the tallest and fastest attractions at Universal Orlando Resort. The dual-tracked roller coaster was manufactured by the German company Mack.
Both tracks reach speeds of up to 62 miles per hour. Each track also features one inversion during the ride experience.
Universal Epic Universe is the third traditional theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. It joins Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the Volcano Bay waterpark. The park features lands themed to Universal monsters, How to Train Your Dragon, Nintendo characters, and the Harry Potter film franchise.
