Every quarter, Florida regulators release a list of medical incidents reported by the state’s theme parks. The data rarely goes unnoticed, offering a window into the realities of operating attractions that see millions of riders every year. Universal Orlando Resort, one of Florida’s busiest destinations, appeared prominently in the latest filing.
The report, covering July through September 2025, includes seven incidents across Universal’s parks, including the death of a guest at its newest park, Epic Universe.
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High-Profile Fatality and Two Coaster Cases
The most serious case involved Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man who died after suffering “multiple blunt impact injuries” on Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers roller coaster in September. The ride reopened with stricter boarding rules that now limit access to guests who can walk on without assistance.
In addition to the fatality, two other roller coaster-related hospitalizations were logged. A 40-year-old woman lost consciousness on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Islands of Adventure, while a 66-year-old man suffered chest pain on The Incredible Hulk Coaster. Both incidents were later linked to pre-existing health conditions.
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The quarterly report also detailed a string of other cases. At Volcano Bay, a 38-year-old woman was hospitalized with neck pain after riding the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. Another guest, a 56-year-old man, reported a severe headache after riding The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
At Universal Studios Florida, a 32-year-old woman suffered motion sickness and neck pain on Revenge of the Mummy. Even the Hogwarts Express, a slower-paced ride connecting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter areas, saw an incident when a 78-year-old woman was hospitalized for dizziness.
A Wider Pattern of Health Emergencies
Universal Orlando is not new to such reports. Earlier in 2025, between April and June, three incidents at Epic Universe were included in the state’s second-quarter filing. Among them: a 32-year-old man reporting chest pain on the Isle of Berk ride and two separate medical issues on Stardust Racers involving dizziness, altered consciousness, and visual disturbances.
Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure were also listed during that period. A 72-year-old woman was hospitalized after feeling weak and dizzy on Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, while a 77-year-old man suffered chest pain on The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
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Medical emergencies at theme parks are not uncommon. Rides that push physical limits can pose risks, particularly for older visitors or those with underlying conditions. Universal’s staff undergoes regular safety training, and emergency services are usually onsite within minutes. In one recent case in Epic Universe’s Dark Universe land, paramedics responded quickly and evacuated the area to treat a guest.
Officials and health experts encourage guests to pay close attention to warning signs at attraction entrances. Staying hydrated, taking breaks in Florida’s heat, and avoiding rides that may trigger medical conditions can significantly reduce risks.
Have you ever experienced an incident at Universal Orlando Resort?
