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

On September 17, Universal Orlando Resort faced a heartbreaking tragedy when a guest died following a ride on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at the resort’s newly opened Epic Universe theme park. The incident has raised concerns and sparked questions about the safety of the attraction. However, after an investigation, Universal has officially stated that the ride system was not responsible for the tragic death.

The roller coaster, which reaches impressive heights of 133 feet and speeds of 62 miles per hour, had only recently opened to the public at Celestial Park. The park, a key feature of the new Epic Universe, has quickly become a fan favorite.

Related: Tragic Death Prompts Epic Universe to Shut Down Roller Coaster

Unfortunately, the excitement turned to devastation when 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lost consciousness while on the ride. What followed was a series of emergency responses as medical personnel rushed to his aid, though he was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

According to a report from the Medical Examiner, Zavala died from ‘multiple blunt impact injuries’ sustained after he became unconscious during the ride. This revelation was confirmed after an audio recording from the 9-1-1 call was released, showing that CPR was performed on Mr. Zavala immediately after the ride ended.

His girlfriend also revealed that he had a preexisting spinal condition, which caused him to use a wheelchair, and that he was on medication, though the exact nature of the medication was not disclosed.

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

As authorities continued to investigate the incident, many wondered whether the ride itself had been a factor in his death. On September 18, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) began its own investigation into the accident. The department’s Director, Aaron Keller, confirmed that Universal had been fully cooperative in the inquiry.

The FDACS has pledged to release further details as they become available, but in the meantime, Universal’s response has been clear.

Universal Orlando Resort President and COO, Karen Irwin, issued a statement to team members, offering her condolences while confirming that the ride system had operated as intended.

The statement was obtained by WESH2 News and shared with the public in a show of transparency.

Dear Team Members, 

In my 35 years with Universal, few moments have been as difficult as this one. 

As you may know, on Wednesday evening, a Guest was unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe, was transported to the hospital, and later sadly passed away. 

Our hearts are with our Guest’s family and loved ones, and with all of you who have been impacted by this tragic loss. 

I want to express my deepest gratitude to you, our Team Members, for the resilience, compassion, and professionalism you have shown. I am proud of the way you supported one another and our Guests, while carrying out your responsibilities with care and excellence during an incredibly hard moment. 

Our internal findings to date confirm that the ride systems functioned as intended, equipment was intact at the ride’s start, throughout the duration of the ride and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures. The attraction remains closed as we continue to work through a comprehensive review process in cooperation with the ride manufacturer of record. Safety is, and always will be, at the forefront of everything we do. 

In the days ahead, please be mindful that this is an ongoing investigation. I ask that you continue to support each other and remember emotional support resources are available for you in-person and virtually. 

Thank you for living our values and the commitment you bring to our Guests and each other, especially in moments like this. Together we will continue to move forward with compassion, care and professionalism. 

Despite these findings, the tragic incident has certainly impacted the community and the families involved. A GoFundMe campaign was set up for Kevin Zavala’s family, and it has gathered donations in support of his loved ones.

The page describes Zavala as “one of a kind… with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding.” His family and friends have highlighted his resilience, saying that despite the challenges he faced in life, he always met them with grace and strength.

He was the kind of person who always made time to listen, offer thoughtful advice, and lift others up, even when he was facing challenges of his own. Despite the restrictions and obstacles he encountered throughout his life, Kevin met them all with grace, strength, and an unwavering spirit. He overcame so much, and he did so with quiet resilience and humility.

Related: Thousands Rally in Support After Tragic Death at Epic Universe

Since its opening earlier this year, some aspects of the ride have been scrutinized. Early reports had raised concerns about safety features, such as a requirement for guests to wear shoes at all times. Additionally, guests must now go through a metal detector before boarding to ensure they are not carrying any potentially dangerous items.

As a result, there has been an increased focus on safety at the park, with additional measures being implemented, such as modified seating to accommodate more riders and further steps to secure the attraction for future guests.

While the ride remains closed, Universal has not given a specific timeline for when it might reopen. The company has promised to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.

Have you ridden Stardust Racers at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe? Do you think the attraction is too intense, or no more intense than other rides at the resort? Share your thoughts on this tragic event in the comments.