A 32‑year‑old man died while riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park. The death was ruled accidental and the investigation has been closed by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando.
The Incident
Security footage shows Kevin Rodriguez Zavala “engaged and well” at the start of the ride, but he was unresponsive and slouched over in his seat when the coaster stopped. Witnesses reported that Zavala was bleeding from the face and his body was contorted.
Medical doctor Anna Marshall, who was waiting in line to board the ride, observed Zavala slouched over and surrounded by blood when the coaster returned to the boarding platform. She noted that his arm was hanging over the ride and that his thigh bone was broken in half and resting on the back of the ride chair.
Zavala used a wheelchair and had metal rods in his back from a previous spinal surgery. His girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz‑Robles, who was beside him on the ride, told Marshall that the rods were present. Dr. Marshall stated that she did not believe Zavala’s lack of use of his legs was the sole reason for the accident.
Family and Legal Response
Zavala’s family has said that his spinal disability did not cause his death on September 17. The media office for attorney Ben Crump, who represents the family, did not return an emailed inquiry about the sheriff’s office report.
Ride Operations and Safety
Universal paramedic Sebastian Torres told investigators that the lap bar securing Zavala was difficult to release for 10 minutes after the ride stopped. Torres wrote that the guest was stuck on the ride vehicle face down, falling out of his seat, with his legs inverted.
Cruz‑Robles reported that a ride operator had to push Zavala’s lap restraint down several times before it was safely in place when they first got on the ride. When the coaster began its first downward movement, Zavala flew forward and hit his head. He hit his head several more times during the ride, and Cruz‑Robles was unable to hold him back.
She also said that she cried for help, but because she was in the middle of the ride, no one heard her screaming until the train cart was getting close to the station.
Investigation Findings
The medical examiner for the Orlando area performed an autopsy and ruled the death an accident, citing blunt‑impact injuries as the cause.
The dual‑launch coaster reaches speeds up to 62 mph and debuted officially in May when Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park opened to the public.
Universal’s Statement
A Universal spokesperson released a statement on September 18: “We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.”
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died during a ride on Stardust Racers at Universal’s Epic Universe.
- Investigation closed; death ruled accidental due to blunt‑impact injuries.
- Witnesses reported a broken thigh bone, head injuries, and a difficult release of the lap bar.
- Zavala’s spinal disability and metal rods were not considered the primary cause of death.
The incident highlights the importance of ride safety protocols and the need for rapid response to rider emergencies. The case remains closed, with the park and authorities affirming cooperation with the investigation.
