On September 17, Universal Orlando Resort experienced a devastating incident that left many questioning the safety of its newest attraction, the Stardust Racers roller coaster at the Epic Universe theme park. The tragedy unfolded when 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lost consciousness during the ride and was later pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital.
This unfortunate event has sparked widespread concern, but Universal has quickly responded with a clear statement regarding the ride system.
Related: Universal Studios Roller Coaster Death: Guest Suffers “Multiple Injuries,” Update Given
The Stardust Racers roller coaster, which had opened just recently, features dramatic elements such as a 133-foot peak and speeds of up to 62 miles per hour. It was one of the major attractions at Celestial Park, part of the highly anticipated Epic Universe expansion at Universal Orlando Resort.
Tragically, during the ride, Mr. Zavala lost consciousness, and when the ride ended, medical staff immediately attended to him. Despite efforts to revive him at the hospital, he was sadly pronounced dead.
The medical examiner’s initial report concluded that Mr. Zavala died from ‘multiple blunt impact injuries’ sustained after he became unconscious. It was further reported that CPR had been performed on Mr. Zavala immediately after the ride concluded.
Related: Epic Universe Death Investigation Update: Fans React to Tragic News
His girlfriend disclosed that he had a preexisting spinal condition, which required him to use a wheelchair, and was on medication, although the specific medication was not revealed.
While investigations into the incident began swiftly, many wondered whether the ride itself was at fault. On September 18, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) initiated its investigation, with Director Aaron Keller assuring that Universal had fully cooperated.
The FDACS promised more details would be shared once they were available. In the meantime, Universal made an immediate public statement about the incident.
In a message to Universal team members, Universal Orlando Resort President and COO, Karen Irwin, expressed her condolences and stated that the ride system was functioning properly before Mr. Zavala’s tragic passing.
Dear Team Members,
In my 35 years with Universal, few moments have been as difficult as this one.
As you may know, on Wednesday evening, a Guest was unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe, was transported to the hospital, and later sadly passed away.
Our hearts are with our Guest’s family and loved ones, and with all of you who have been impacted by this tragic loss.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to you, our Team Members, for the resilience, compassion, and professionalism you have shown. I am proud of the way you supported one another and our Guests, while carrying out your responsibilities with care and excellence during an incredibly hard moment.
Our internal findings to date confirm that the ride systems functioned as intended, equipment was intact at the ride’s start, throughout the duration of the ride and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures. The attraction remains closed as we continue to work through a comprehensive review process in cooperation with the ride manufacturer of record. Safety is, and always will be, at the forefront of everything we do.
In the days ahead, please be mindful that this is an ongoing investigation. I ask that you continue to support each other and remember emotional support resources are available for you in-person and virtually.
Thank you for living our values and the commitment you bring to our Guests and each other, especially in moments like this. Together we will continue to move forward with compassion, care and professionalism.
Related: Tragic Death Reported at Epic Universe Sparks Outpouring of Support
In a GoFundMe set up for the Zavala family, Kevin Zavala was remembered fondly by his loved ones. The page describes him as “one of a kind… with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding.”
His family and friends have shared stories of his strength and resilience, particularly in facing challenges with humility and grace. The community has rallied behind the family, offering support during this incredibly difficult time.
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. Despite the restrictions and obstacles he encountered throughout his life, Kevin met them all with grace, strength, and an unwavering spirit. He overcame so much, and he did so with quiet resilience and humility.
In the wake of the tragedy, there has been a focus on the safety of the attraction. Early measures put in place for the ride, such as the requirement for guests to wear shoes and pass through metal detectors before boarding, are being scrutinized even more closely. These safety measures, including the addition of modified seating for the ride, aim to enhance guest safety while also preventing further incidents.
As the investigation continues, the ride remains closed, and Universal has yet to announce when it will reopen. The company emphasized that safety remains its top priority and promised to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.
Have you ridden the Stardust Racers at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe? What are your thoughts on the safety of the attraction? Share your opinions and reactions to this tragic incident in the comments below.
