Universal Faces Backlash as Family of Deceased Guest Objects to Ride’s Reopening

In a tragic incident that has left many in the theme park community reeling, the family of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala is speaking out after his sudden passing on the Stardust Racers ride at Universal Orlando’s newly opened Epic Universe park. The ride, a dual-launch roller coaster known for its inverted crisscross, which reaches speeds of up to 62 miles per hour and heights of 133 feet, became the center of controversy after Zavala’s death.

The incident occurred during the ride, when Zavala—who used a wheelchair—lost consciousness. Emergency medical services were immediately on hand, and despite life-saving efforts, Zavala was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

In the days following the incident, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services began looking into the proper functioning of the Stardust Racers ride. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office also initiated a manslaughter investigation, which is standard procedure when a death occurs from unnatural causes.

The details surrounding what exactly caused Zavala to lose consciousness remain unclear, though the Medical Examiner later confirmed that he died from “multiple blunt impact injuries.”

Following Zavala’s passing on September 17, the ride was immediately closed for investigation. However, just four days later, Universal’s President and COO Karen Irwin issued a letter to team members, thanking them for their dedication and strength during such a tragic time.

Related: Universal Orlando Responds After Man’s Death, Says Ride System Not to Blame

In the same letter, Irwin confirmed that the Stardust Racers ride system had been thoroughly examined and had not malfunctioned at any time—before, during, or after Zavala’s ride. This announcement reassured employees, but it sparked further criticism when, just weeks later, Universal announced that the ride would reopen on October 4.

Since then, the family has voiced their concerns not just over the tragic loss of their loved one, but also about Universal’s decision to reopen the ride so soon after the incident. As the investigation continues, Zavala’s family has called out the park for moving forward with the ride’s reopening, arguing that it disrespects their loss and the ongoing inquiry.

The emotional outcry has drawn attention to the speed at which Universal has proceeded with the reopening, despite ongoing investigations and previous safety concerns.

Related: Fans Devastated as Authorities Release Update on Epic Universe Death

Ben Crump, the prominent civil rights attorney representing Zavala’s family, released a statement after learning of the roller coaster’s reopening.

Stardust Racers is evidence in an active death investigation. Reopening the ride before our experts can examine every component is unadulterated spoliation of evidence, a grave risk to public safety, and puts profit over people’s lives. Universal reportedly told employees the ride functioned as intended. If that is accurate, then the design itself is deadly. We are demanding that Universal pause the reopening, preserve all evidence, and allow our experts to inspect it. If they refuse, we will address Universal’s callous actions in court. 

Universal reportedly reassured its employees that the ride was operating as intended, but Crump suggested that if this is indeed the case, the design itself could be inherently dangerous.

Related: Guest’s Death on Ride Prompts Criminal Investigation and Legal Moves at Epic Universe

As part of the response to the incident, Crump and Zavala’s family have expressed outrage over Universal’s decision to swiftly resume operations.

By rushing to reopen this ride as if nothing happened, Universal is showing great disrespect for Kevin’s life, our family’s pain, and the safety of every rider who steps onto that coaster. We are horrified that Universal would put the ride back into operation so quickly.

Zavala’s family had specifically requested that the ride remain closed until all investigations were complete, but their plea went unheeded.

Since Zavala’s death, multiple guests have come forward with complaints of injuries sustained while riding Stardust Racers. One woman filed a lawsuit claiming she suffered injuries on the ride back in April, which was quickly settled by Universal, although the settlement details have yet to be made public.

These incidents have added fuel to the fire, with Crump emphasizing that these previous injuries, along with Zavala’s tragic death, should have been considered as warning signs that the ride was unsafe.

Zavala’s family continues to demand that Universal pause the reopening until the investigation is complete, allowing for a full inspection by their experts.

What are your thoughts on Universal’s decision to reopen Stardust Racers so soon after this tragedy? Do you believe the ride should have remained closed for further investigation, or is Universal’s response appropriate? Share your views in the comments below.