News Summary
A 32-year-old man died after experiencing a ride on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe. The cause of death was determined to be multiple blunt impact injuries. The incident has sparked an investigation into safety regulations at theme parks in Florida, especially given that such parks are exempt from state safety inspections. Universal expressed condolences to the victim’s family while collaborating with the ongoing inquiry.
Orlando – A tragic incident at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park has resulted in the death of a 32-year-old man, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, following a ride on the Stardust Racers roller coaster. The event, which occurred on Wednesday, has prompted a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities discovered Zavala unresponsive on the ride. Off-duty deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office were quick to act, transporting him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The medical examiner for Orange and Osceola counties later determined that the cause of death was multiple blunt impact injuries. The nature of these injuries raises several questions, particularly about where they were sustained on his body.
In light of the incident, the Stardust Racers roller coaster has been closed as investigations are ongoing. A spokesperson for Universal expressed their devastation regarding the event, extending condolences to Zavala’s family during this difficult time. The theme park is cooperating fully with the investigation, but it has opted to limit comments on the matter due to the ongoing nature of the inquiry.
Universal’s Epic Universe opened its doors in May and has since attracted visitors with various themed attractions, including Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic. Recent reports indicate that this is the first major traditional theme park to open in Florida since 1999. Despite this unfortunate event, many guests continue to visit, with three reported medical incidents since the park’s opening, mainly concerning individuals with preexisting medical conditions.
The recent incident raises broader questions about safety regulations at theme parks in Florida. Despite the popularity of major theme parks like Universal, they are exempt from state safety inspections. However, they are required to report any incidents resulting in injury or death to the state authorities. As investigations continue, experts in the amusement park industry have expressed surprise over the findings of the autopsy, pondering whether the blunt impact injuries were related to the ride’s operation or possibly attributable to passenger behavior.
The investigation into this tragedy is ongoing, and as more details emerge, they will be crucial in determining what exactly led to the unfortunate death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. The medical community’s ruling of the incident as an accident brings some closure, but the lack of specific details regarding the nature and cause of the injuries heightens concerns among both park visitors and industry professionals.
As Universal’s Epic Universe continues to attract guests, the park remains vigilant in ensuring the safety of all visitors. The addition of a 500-room hotel and five themed sections showcases the park’s commitment to providing a comprehensive experience, but the tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with amusement rides.
Further updates from the investigation are anticipated, as both the local community and the broader public seek answers regarding safety measures at the park and the broader implications for amusement attractions throughout the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Culinary Experiences Opening in Orlando
Universal Orlando to Host Rock the Universe Festival
Rock the Universe Music Festival Returns to Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe Festival Returns
Helena Modern Riviera Launches Magical Dining Month
Orlando’s Magical Dining Event Returns
Universal Orlando Launches Halloween Horror Nights With New Haunted Houses
Disney World Announces Closure of Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance!
Orlando’s Magical Dining Returns with New Offerings
Universal Orlando Announces Opening of Epic Universe
Additional Resources
- CNN: Epic Universe Death
- Wikipedia: Theme park safety
- NBC News: Visitor Dies at Epic Universe
- Google Search: Stardust Racers roller coaster incident
- Click Orlando: Cause of Death Revealed
- Google Scholar: Amusement park safety regulations
- New York Times: Universal Ride Death
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Roller coaster safety
- SFGate: Visitor Dies at Epic Universe
- Google News: Universal Epic Universe incident
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
