When Universal unveiled Epic Universe earlier this year, the park was pitched as a turning point in Orlando’s theme park rivalry. From a sprawling Celestial Park to entire lands built around Nintendo and DreamWorks, the project promised to reset expectations for what a modern resort could deliver.
The debut brought enormous crowds — and enormous scrutiny. Epic Universe instantly became the talk of Central Florida’s tourism economy, offering both competition and spectacle in equal measure. Yet with its headliner coaster under the microscope, attention has shifted from the park’s creative triumphs to its legal and safety challenges.
A Rapid Settlement
Court records in Orange County confirm that Universal has quietly resolved one such case. A lawsuit filed against the company over alleged injuries on Stardust Racers, the park’s marquee roller coaster, was voluntarily dismissed after both parties reached a confidential settlement. The resolution came just days after the complaint was first lodged, marking an unusually swift end to the matter.
The filing, submitted on September 24, alleged that 49-year-old Sandi Streets sustained injuries while riding Stardust Racers. Streets claimed her head struck the ride’s headrest after a violent jolt, arguing she had a reasonable expectation of safety that was not met. She also asserted Universal failed to properly restrain her.
Streets had initially requested a jury trial to determine damages. However, within days of filing, a Notice of Settlement and Voluntary Dismissal was entered, signaling both parties’ desire to avoid a prolonged courtroom battle.
The accelerated timeline drew notice among legal observers, suggesting an agreement was reached almost immediately. It also allowed Universal to sidestep extended litigation over one of Epic Universe’s most high-profile attractions.
Spotlight on Stardust Racers
Stardust Racers is among the most ambitious projects Universal has ever undertaken. A dual-track coaster designed to simulate racing comets through the night sky, the ride launches guests past fountains and gardens at speeds topping 60 miles per hour. Its illuminated trains have become a focal point of Celestial Park, the central hub of Epic Universe.
The attraction has been marketed as both a technical and narrative showcase, intertwining tracks that create near-miss visuals and choreographed races. Positioned alongside themed lands inspired by Nintendo, DreamWorks, the Wizarding World’s Ministry of Magic, and Universal’s classic monsters, it represents the scale of Universal’s largest-ever expansion.
Yet Stardust Racers has also been at the center of controversy. Earlier this month, 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive aboard the coaster and later pronounced dead. His death, attributed to multiple blunt-force injuries, remains under investigation. Universal closed the ride indefinitely as safety reviews continue.
The back-to-back incidents have amplified public concern, with critics questioning how the park balances thrill and security. For Universal, the swift dismissal of Streets’ lawsuit may reflect an attempt to limit further exposure while maintaining confidence in Epic Universe’s flagship coaster.
As Orlando’s theme park race intensifies, Epic Universe stands as both Universal’s boldest bet and a flashpoint for scrutiny. How the company manages Stardust Racers in the months ahead could shape not just public perception of the park, but also the trajectory of the city’s most competitive tourism industry.
What are your thoughts on the recent legal action against Stardust Racers?
When you buy a ticket to an amusement park you are taking responsibility for most of the rush of harm or even death. We ride rides because of the risks. This is getting out of hand.