The Epic Universe and Universal Orlando Resort community are coming together in support of one fan who lost their life while riding a roller coaster inside one of the theme parks on September 17, 2025. Updates will be provided after the new information has been released.
Epic Universe Fans, Universal Guests Rally in Support of Deceased Fan
Theme parks are built to inspire wonder—bright lights, towering rides, and the rush of thrills that make us feel like kids again. But every so often, a tragedy cuts through the magic, leaving guests and fans worldwide stunned. That’s exactly what unfolded at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe this week, when one of its flagship attractions became the center of heartbreaking news.
Epic Universe, which opened earlier this year, has been celebrated as Orlando’s most ambitious theme park in decades. Yet the tragic events tied to one of its most talked-about rides show how quickly joy can give way to grief, reminding everyone that even in places built for escape, real-life risks remain.
As news spread, the theme park community turned not only to mourning but also to action—supporting a grieving family and honoring the life of a guest whose story has touched thousands.
The Accident at Stardust Racers
On September 17, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, of Kissimmee, Florida, was found unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers, the high-speed dual-launch roller coaster inside Epic Universe’s Celestial Park.
He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The Orange County Medical Examiner reported the cause of death as multiple blunt impact injuries, ruling it an accident.
A spokesperson for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, adding that Universal has fully complied with required notifications.
Universal Orlando issued a statement saying, “We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”
Tips for Guests During Unexpected Closures
With one of the park’s headline rides closed indefinitely, guests should prepare to adjust their park plans. Some strategies include:
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Use the app: Universal’s mobile app posts live ride updates, wait times, and mobile food ordering.
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Shift priorities: Focus on attractions with lower waits early in the day to balance out crowds from the closure.
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Seek alternatives: Celestial Park features family-friendly options like Constellation Carousel and lush walking paths.
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Anticipate crowd spikes: Popular nearby coasters will see heavier lines—consider visiting them later in the evening.
Lesser-Known Hacks for Navigating Epic Universe
Veteran Universal fans know that even during ride shutdowns, there are ways to make the most of your visit:
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Quiet spaces: Garden paths and shaded areas tucked behind celestial fountains provide peaceful breaks.
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Snack detours: Temporary food stands often appear when crowds shift, making them ideal for quick grabs.
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Photo hotspots: Reflective pools around Celestial Park offer some of the park’s most striking nighttime photos.
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Single-rider options: For operating thrill rides, these lines can dramatically cut wait times.
The Human Story Behind the Headlines
The most powerful response to this tragedy has come from fans and community members rallying around the Rodriguez Zavala family.
A GoFundMe fundraiser launched on September 18 has already raised $6,820 of a $10,000 goal to help with funeral and memorial expenses. The family described Kevin as “an old soul — wise beyond his years — with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding.”
Though many who have donated never met him, the story has resonated widely. Theme park fans know the joy rides like Stardust Racers bring, which makes the loss even more poignant.
Accidents like this remain rare, but when they do occur, they carry immense emotional weight. Beyond the investigation and official statements, it’s the human connections and outpouring of support that define how a community responds.
Moving Forward
Epic Universe continues to draw thousands of guests daily, even as Stardust Racers remains shuttered during the investigation. For those planning visits, the best approach is to stay flexible and informed, while remembering that the true magic of theme parks often lies in the people we share them with.
As for Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, his memory lives on not only through those who knew him best but also through the strangers now united in honoring his life. Supporting his family—whether through donations, sharing their story, or keeping them in your thoughts—is a reminder of how a community can rise together during its darkest moments.
To show support, click the GoFundMe page.
