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Credit: UniversalThere’s a new update on the tragic death at Epic Universe.
Universal Orlando Resort has confirmed that a male guest died after riding Stardust Racers, the flagship roller coaster inside the park’s Celestial Park. The incident occurred on the night of September 17, leading to a large law enforcement presence at the scene.
Authorities later identified the guest as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Zavala was found unresponsive in the coaster and transported to an area hospital, where officials say he later died (via Spectrum News 13).
Chief Medical Examiner Joshua Stephany, M.D., conducted an autopsy on Thursday morning. The report determined the cause of death to be “multiple blunt impact injuries.” Officials have ruled the manner of death an accident.
“Universal is cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe,” the company said in a statement released through the Orange County Fire Rescue Department. “The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died.”
Witness Shares More Details About Incident
A witness who claimed to be in line at the time shared their account on Reddit. They alleged Zavala appeared to pass out mid-ride and struck his head. By the time the train returned, his mother, who was seated next to him, was described as frantic.
Universal added that it was “devastated” over the incident. “We extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation.” Stardust Racers has been closed indefinitely pending further review.
Stardust Racers, which officially opened with the rest of Epic Universe in May, is marketed as a high-speed, thrill ride. The dual-launch coaster races riders along 5,000 feet of track, climbing to 133 feet and reaching speeds of 62 mph. The attraction also features an inverted crisscross element.
Epic Universe itself has been one of the year’s most talked-about theme parks, featuring five immersive lands, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park. Since debuting, the park has drawn heavy praise, despite early operational challenges such as recurrent technical issues.
According to the Florida Department of Agriculture’s theme park incident report, three Epic Universe guests were hospitalized between April and June this year, including two on Stardust Racers alone. On June 22, a 63-year-old man experienced dizziness, and on June 24, a 47-year-old woman reported visual disturbance and numbness. Both cases were linked to preexisting conditions.
Have you experienced Stardust Racers?
