When Epic Universe opened earlier this year, Universal Orlando Resort positioned the sprawling property as a glimpse into the future of theme parks. Guests could step into immersive new lands — from SUPER NINTENDO WORLD to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic — while Celestial Park served as the anchor for the entire experience. Its headline coaster, Stardust Racers, was promoted as the ultimate thrill.
Now, that same attraction is closed following the death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Zavala became unresponsive during a ride on September 17 and was later pronounced dead at an area hospital (via Spectrum News 13).
Cause of Death Determined
Chief Medical Examiner Joshua Stephany, M.D., conducted an autopsy on September 18. His report determined Zavala died of “multiple blunt impact injuries.” The manner of death was ruled accidental.
“Universal is cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe,” Universal said in a statement issued through the Orange County Fire Rescue Department. “The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died.”
The company later added, “We extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation.”
Witness Account and Ongoing Scrutiny
Details about the incident have surfaced online. A witness who claimed to be in line posted on Reddit, alleging Zavala appeared to pass out mid-ride and hit his head. His mother, seated beside him, was described as frantic when the coaster returned to the station.
Universal has since closed Stardust Racers indefinitely. Marketed as a dual-launch coaster, the attraction propels riders over 5,000 feet of track, reaching 62 mph and climbing to 133 feet. A crisscrossing inversion serves as one of the coaster’s defining elements.
The roller coaster had already been part of state reporting. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, three Epic Universe guests were hospitalized between April and June, including two on Stardust Racers. On June 22, a 63-year-old man reported dizziness, and two days later, a 47-year-old woman experienced visual disturbance and numbness.
The tragedy comes just months into Epic Universe's first year. The park, which opened in May, was hailed as one of Universal’s most significant expansions in decades. In addition to Celestial Park, the resort features themed lands inspired by How to Train Your Dragon, Universal’s Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and the Harry Potter franchise.
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Dr. Joshua Stephany did not perform the autopsy. He is the chief medical examiner and therefore is the spokesperson for the office. He provided the cause and manner of death determined by the doctor who did the autopsy.
Dude has Cebral Palsy. Weak neck muscles is why he banged his head around. Family should be held accountable for allowing him to get out of a wheelchair with assistance to ride an extreme rollercoaster. FOLKS IF YOUR LOVED ONE HAS WEAK NECK MUSCLES. DONT BE LIKE THIS FAMILY OUTTING YOUR LOVED ON ON A ROLLERCOASTER.