Panic at Universal Orlando: Roller Coaster Catches Fire, Emergency Teams Respond

A fire erupted on a now-defunct Universal Orlando Resort roller coaster on the morning of October 10, 2025.

Universal Orlando Resort in Chaos as Fire Erupts on Coaster: Entire Ordeal Caught on Video

Universal Orlando is no stranger to change. Over the years, rides have come and gone, lands have been reimagined, and fans have learned to expect the unexpected. Yet, even with all that constant transformation, what happened this week left many longtime visitors completely stunned.

For over a decade, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit defined the Universal Studios Florida skyline. Its bright red track and towering lift hill were visible from nearly every corner of the park. Guests who braved its vertical climb and blasting music playlist considered it a rite of passage—one of those “only at Universal” experiences that stuck with you long after the ride ended.

Since its permanent closure in August, fans have watched closely as demolition crews worked to take down what was once one of the park’s signature thrill rides. But this week’s unexpected event brought a dramatic—and fiery—twist to the ride’s final days.

Universal’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Catches Fire During Demolition

Friday morning turned chaotic when smoke began to rise over Universal Studios Florida. According to WESH 2 News, a fire broke out around 11:42 a.m. on the remains of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster. Firefighters were quickly dispatched and began battling flames that had spread across the coaster’s lift hill, one of the few pieces of the attraction still standing.

LIVE: Closed Universal Studios roller coaster catches fire https://t.co/G4JLXrtweO

— WFLA NEWS (@WFLA) October 10, 2025

Live footage captured by WESH 2 showed the track glowing orange with flames as thick black smoke filled the air. By 11:50 a.m., the top of the lift hill was heavily scorched, its once-yellow supports darkened and burned. Crews continued dousing the structure, and by 11:56 a.m., the fire appeared to be mostly under control, though occasional flare-ups kept firefighters on alert. By 12:04 p.m., the blaze was largely contained.

The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, though ongoing demolition work in the area may have played a role.

Fans React to the Unexpected Scene

For theme park enthusiasts, the moment was surreal. Social media platforms were flooded with photos, videos, and emotional tributes from fans who had ridden Rip Ride Rockit countless times over the years. Some described watching the footage as “heartbreaking,” while others shared their favorite memories of picking custom songs before that iconic vertical climb.

“It feels like the end of an era,” one fan posted. “That coaster was loud, wild, and pure Universal energy. Seeing it burn like that… it’s hard to watch.”

The ride, famous for its personalized music feature and unique track design, was among the most visually recognizable coasters in Orlando. Its sudden fiery finale made headlines across local media and reignited speculation about what could replace it.

What’s Next for Universal Studios Florida?

Universal has yet to issue a statement regarding the fire or any changes to the demolition timeline. However, speculation continues to swirl about what might be coming next for the site. Many fans believe the area could be home to a new, state-of-the-art attraction, possibly connected to newer film franchises or immersive themed lands.

As Universal continues to bring guests into Epic Universe and invests heavily in the next generation of experiences, the end of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit represents both a loss and an opportunity. It’s a reminder of how fast the theme park world evolves—and how deeply guests connect to the rides that define their childhoods and memories.

For now, the sight of the charred lift hill serves as a striking symbol of change—one that Universal fans won’t soon forget.