Tragic Roller Coaster Incident Raises Questions at Universal's Epic Universe

Tue Oct 21 2025 01:29:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, on the Stardust Racers roller coaster has sparked concerns about safety measures at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park, as multiple eyewitness accounts emerge.

Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died following a ride on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe, prompting an outcry for answers from his family and attorney. Reports reveal other injuries on the ride raise safety concerns. As the family seeks justice, they question the lack of oversight in Florida's large amusement parks.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Tragedy struck Universal’s Epic Universe theme park as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died from blunt force injuries sustained on the newly launched Stardust Racers roller coaster. His family seeks answers amid shocking revelations of other injuries linked to the ride.

Kevin passed away on September 17, with the family’s attorney, Ben Crump, stating that several others have reached out with their horror stories after experiencing injuries on the same ride. One woman claimed to have lost consciousness and sustained neck injuries just weeks after the ride's opening in May.

All we want is answers regarding my son’s death, Zavala’s mother expressed. The emotional burden of losing a child is immense, and they hope to find peace through clarity and accountability.

The dual-launch coaster reaches speeds of up to 62 mph, gaining popularity since its launch, but concerns about safety loom. A woman has filed a lawsuit alleging permanent injuries from the ride before it officially opened. Crump has called for enhanced regulatory oversight for large theme parks in Florida, which are exempt from state safety inspections. Instead, they self-regulate while mandatory reporting for accidents remains.

With similar incidents reported at the park since its debut, the family prepares for a potential legal battle, questioning Universal's handling of prior incidents. They are urging others with similar experiences to come forward, hoping to shed light on what appears to be a recurrent issue with ride safety at the park.