News Summary
The Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Studios Orlando has reopened after a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a rider. Following a thorough safety review and new operational protocols, the ride resumed operations on October 4, 2025. The incident, which involved Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, has raised concerns about ride safety and operations, prompting legal representatives to call for further investigation. Universal has implemented new signage and procedures to enhance guest safety, while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
Orlando, Florida – The Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Studios Orlando has reopened, approximately three weeks after a tragic incident that resulted in the death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala while he was riding the attraction. The coaster officially resumed operations on Saturday, October 4, 2025, following extensive safety reviews and procedural updates implemented by the amusement park.
On September 17, 2025, Zavala, who was in a wheelchair due to spinal cord atrophy, sustained multiple blunt impact injuries while using the roller coaster. Authorities stated that his condition did not contribute to the fatal injuries incurred during the ride. The Orange County Medical Examiner ruled his death as an accident caused by the injuries suffered on the roller coaster.
In the wake of Zavala’s death, Universal Orlando Resort’s President and COO, Karen Irwin, conveyed condolences to the park’s team members, emphasizing the paramount importance of safety in the operation of attractions. The reopening of the ride followed a thorough safety review that involved collaboration with local officials, state inspectors, and the ride’s manufacturer as well as feedback from an independent roller coaster engineering expert.
Overview of Safety Procedures and Changes Made
In order to enhance guest safety and awareness, Universal has introduced new operational procedures and signage to better inform visitors about ride warnings and eligibility requirements. This move is intended to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that all riders are fully aware of the necessary criteria for participation in the ride.
Following the tragic incident, attorney Ben Crump, representing Zavala’s family, expressed concern regarding the decision to reopen the ride before independent experts could conduct their own inspections, raising issues related to the preservation of evidence relevant to the ongoing investigation. Crump characterized the reopening as a potential “spoliation of evidence” concerning the circumstances surrounding Zavala’s death.
Eyewitness Accounts and Further Investigation
Witnesses have reported that during the ride, Zavala appeared to be unresponsive and was seen with visible injuries, including head lacerations. Although Universal has not previously faced significant legal actions for this particular ride, it is worth noting that they settled a prior lawsuit from a woman who claimed to have sustained permanent injuries on the Stardust Racers.
Legal representatives for Zavala’s family have indicated that others have come forward to share similar experiences regarding ride safety, fueling concerns about the operational security of the roller coaster. Even with the reopening, Zavala’s family has not filed a lawsuit but is actively seeking answers regarding the incident, expressing distress over the swift resumption of operations.
Additional Context
Universal Orlando Resort unveiled its latest attraction, Epic Universe, in May 2025, where the Stardust Racers is prominently featured. The roller coaster reaches a top speed of 62 mph and ascends heights of up to 133 feet. Despite the park’s efforts to enhance safety, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances of the incident to ensure thorough review and accountability.
The park’s internal guidelines now stipulate that guests requiring mobility devices must be able to walk independently in order to ride certain attractions, including the Stardust Racers. As the investigation carries on and operational changes take effect, Universal Orlando is working diligently to ensure the safety of all guests while addressing the concerns raised by Zavala’s family and other visitors.
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Additional Resources
- New York Post: Stardust Racers Reopens
- CNN: Epic Universe Stardust Racers Reopening
- Fox 35 Orlando: Stardust Racers Opening Date
- Orlando Sentinel: Universal Studios Reopens
- Florida Today: Stardust Racers Reopening News
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.
