News Summary
A tragedy struck at Universal Orlando as a guest died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster. The individual, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, was reported unresponsive post-ride and later pronounced dead from multiple blunt impact injuries. Universal Orlando is cooperating with investigations, and the ride is currently closed. Safety protocols are under scrutiny as incidents raise concerns about amusement parks’ safety practices.
Orlando, Florida
A tragic incident occurred at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe on September 18, 2025, when a guest named Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32 years old, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster. Panic ensued after guests reported Zavala unresponsive following the ride, prompting first responders to transport him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner later determined that Zavala died from “multiple blunt impact injuries,” concluding that the manner of death was accidental. Despite initial concerns, Orange County fire officials provided clarification that Zavala did not fall from the roller coaster, alleviating fears of safety protocol failures.
Fellow guests reported a disturbing scene during the ride where one patron, Maria Fernandez, recalled hearing a girl scream for help as she noticed Zavala slumped over, possibly bleeding and appearing to have a broken leg. Such observations have raised questions about the conditions prior to Zavala’s collapse, as well as the immediate response after the incident.
Details of the Ride and Incident
Stardust Racers, a dual-launch racing coaster known for its thrilling experience, boasts speeds up to 62 mph and a height of 133 feet. Since its opening in May 2025, it has quickly gained popularity among visitors at the newly inaugurated Epic Universe, which features five themed sections and includes a 500-room hotel. However, this incident overshadowed the park’s recent debut.
In light of the tragedy, a spokesperson from Universal expressed profound sadness and extended sympathies to Zavala’s family. The spokesperson mentioned that the ride is currently closed, and Universal is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the incident.
Safety Procedures and Investigations
Universal Orlando, like Florida’s other major theme parks, conducts its own safety inspections and is exempt from state-mandated inspections. Nonetheless, park operators are required to report any injuries or fatalities that occur on their attractions. This incident has spurred renewed scrutiny on safety practices and protocols within Florida’s amusement parks.
Prior to this incident, Epic Universe faced minor health-related occurrences, including a 32-year-old individual experiencing chest pain on another ride, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, as well as two guests who experienced medical issues on the Stardust Racers attributed to pre-existing conditions. These events, albeit concerning, were unrelated to the tragic event involving Zavala.
In response to this latest incident, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has dispatched an investigator to the location and has acknowledged awareness of the situation.
Background on Epic Universe
Epic Universe represents a significant expansion for Universal Orlando, having opened in May 2025. With its introduction, Epic Universe became the first major traditional theme park to open in Florida since 1999, bringing the total number of parks at Universal Orlando to four. The addition of this expansive park is expected to boost tourism and provide visitors with diverse experiences.
As the investigation into Zavala’s death continues, officials and safety experts will likely review current operating procedures and safety measures in place at amusement parks to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
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Additional Resources
- CNN: Epic Universe Death
- Wikipedia: Roller Coaster
- NBC News: Epic Universe Visitor Dies
- Google Search: Roller Coaster Safety Protocols
- ABC News: Visitor Dies After Roller Coaster Incident
- Google Scholar: Amusement Park Safety Practices
- Deadline: Epic Universe Roller Coaster Death
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theme Park History
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.
