News Summary
Universal Orlando’s Stardust Racers attraction has reopened following a two-week closure after a tragic incident that resulted in a guest’s death. The roller coaster was closed for safety investigations after Kevin Zavala, a 32-year-old patron, died due to multiple blunt impact injuries. Universal stated that the ride functioned as intended, but concerns persist, with the family advocating for additional safety reviews. The park has updated operational protocols to enhance rider safety, yet calls for further scrutiny continue, following claims of potential safety issues.
Orlando, Florida, – The Stardust Racers attraction at Universal’s Epic Universe reopened on Saturday evening after being closed for two weeks following a fatal incident involving a guest. The closure began after Kevin Zavala, a 32-year-old Kissimmee resident, lost his life on September 17 while riding the roller coaster.
Zavala was found unresponsive after his ride and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The medical examiner ruled his death an accident, determining that the cause was “multiple blunt impact injuries.” Although Zavala had a pre-existing spinal condition, his family described him as a lover of roller coasters and someone who cherished his independence.
Following the tragic event, Universal Orlando’s president stated that internal reviews confirmed the roller coaster “functioned as intended” and all equipment was intact during Zavala’s ride. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services conducted an investigation, which aligned with Universal’s findings that the ride was safe, and noted that Universal had been cooperative throughout the process.
In response to concerns regarding safety, Universal updated operational procedures and signage at the attraction to better inform guests about ride warnings and eligibility requirements. Furthermore, the park implemented stricter access protocols, mandating that guests with mobility devices demonstrate the ability to walk independently onto the ride.
However, attorney Ben Crump, representing Zavala’s family, has raised alarms over the safety of the Stardust Racers. He has reported multiple complaints about the ride’s safety restraints and suggested there might be a pattern of safety issues that require further investigation. Following the ride’s reopening, Crump alleged that a similar malfunction occurred within hours, echoing the restraints’ issues experienced by Zavala.
As a result, Zavala’s family is publicly advocating for the ride’s closure for additional investigation. They have expressed significant concern regarding safety and reiterated their desire to ensure that every rider feels secure while enjoying the attraction.
Universal Orlando maintains that they have performed comprehensive safety inspections and that the ride operated normally. Nonetheless, the family is adamant about pushing for improvements in safety measures to avoid any future incidents. In a related case, an unrelated lawsuit has also been filed against Universal by another guest who is claiming injury due to the ride’s performance.
In the aftermath of these events, the focus remains on rider safety and operational integrity, as the park navigates its commitment to providing a safe environment for all its guests.
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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.
