A roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s newest theme park is under intense scrutiny following the death of a 32-year-old guest, who was discovered unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers, a high-speed dueling coaster at Epic Universe. State authorities have since launched a formal investigation into the incident, which occurred on September 17.
The deceased has been identified as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Zavala was found unresponsive on the ride and was later pronounced dead after being transported to a local hospital. The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the cause of death was “multiple blunt impact injuries” and has ruled the incident accidental.
Guest Dies on Dueling Coaster; State Responds
The tragic event has prompted the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. An FDACS investigator responded the following day, on September 18, to assess the situation on-site.
While FDACS typically regulates ride inspections across Florida, large parks like Universal — which operate with more than 1,000 employees — are permitted to conduct internal inspections through full-time safety personnel.
“Universal has been extremely cooperative and has complied with all required notifications,” said Aaron Keller, Communications Director for FDACS. “This is an ongoing investigation, and more information will be released as it is available.”
The coaster in question, Stardust Racers, has been shut down since the incident, and as of September 19, it remains closed to the public.
However, fresh video footage obtained by Orlando Theme Park Zone shows the ride running at night, which suggests that testing is actively underway—likely as part of the post-incident investigation and ride system analysis.
Who Was Kevin Rodriguez Zavala?
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was remembered by family as a kind, empathetic, and quietly strong individual. A GoFundMe campaign created by his loved ones paints a vivid picture of a man whose life left a deep impact on those around him.
“Kevin was truly one of a kind. He had an old soul — wise beyond his years — with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding,” the campaign reads. “Despite the restrictions and obstacles he encountered throughout his life, Kevin met them all with grace, strength, and an unwavering spirit.”
The fundraiser, launched on September 18, aims to help cover Zavala’s funeral and memorial costs. As of September 19, over $13,000 of the $16,000 goal had been raised.
Universal and Manufacturer Express Sympathy
Universal Orlando released a brief statement in response to the incident, expressing sorrow and confirming their cooperation with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.
“We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest's loved ones,” the company said. “We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”
The manufacturer of the ride, Mack Rides, also issued a statement, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving the Stardust Racers attraction,” said Maximilian Roeser, Head of Marketing for Mack Rides. “We are currently unable to comment on the circumstances of the accident but are in close contact with the operator and the authorities and are actively supporting the investigation.”
What Is Stardust Racers?
One of the signature attractions of Epic Universe, Stardust Racers is a dual-track racing coaster located in the Celestial Park area of the park. The ride features two trains that launch simultaneously and race along 5,000 feet of track, reaching speeds up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet.
Designed by German coaster firm Mack Rides, it blends high-speed thrills with interstellar theming. Like other major coasters, it includes strict safety requirements for riders:
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Minimum height requirement: 48 inches
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Riders must have full use of both legs and at least one natural upper extremity
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Must be able to brace against forces and maintain an upright posture
These standards are meant to ensure safe participation, particularly on high-speed, high-intensity rides like Stardust Racers.
Ride Safety and Reopening Protocols
While the investigation continues, experts familiar with amusement ride operations have weighed in on what typically happens following incidents like this.
“Mechanical and electrical failures end up being probably the smallest component of what can create an incident,” said Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides. If mechanical issues are identified, he explained, manufacturers have a responsibility to notify others using similar systems.
“We would inform them of that and would detail what steps need to be taken before they continue to operate that ride,” he said.
In cases where the ride itself is cleared of fault, operators may still choose to keep it closed as a precaution or public relations decision.
“If a ride reopens, I can guarantee you that several investigations have been made, that safety inspectors have looked at the ride, and that all checks have been done in a way that it is safe to reopen,” said Jakob Wahl, CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA).
Testing in Progress, But No Reopening Date Yet
While Universal has not made an official announcement regarding when or if Stardust Racers will resume public operations, the appearance of nighttime testing captured on video suggests a multi-phase investigation is already in motion. Engineers and inspectors will be reviewing everything from ride systems and maintenance logs to possible operational or procedural errors.
Until then, Stardust Racers remains closed—and Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s family and community are left mourning the life of a man described as gentle, resilient, and selfless.
“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 family wrote.
As the investigation proceeds, the incident has renewed calls within the industry to continue evolving ride safety practices while acknowledging the inherent risks associated with thrill rides.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe only opened its gates in May, ushering in a new era of immersive entertainment. But this tragic loss has reminded many that even in places built for joy and escape, real-world heartbreak can still find its way in.
