Universal Studios has long marketed itself as the go-to destination for thrill-seekers. Its parks boast some of the most ambitious coasters in the industry, offering vertical drops, high-speed launches, and cinematic theming. Attractions like Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Orlando and The Flying Dinosaur in Osaka define its competitive edge.
But recent accidents and breakdowns have shaken that reputation, leaving guests — and regulators — demanding clearer answers about what went wrong.
A Series of Roller Coaster Incidents at Universal
The most serious case came in Florida last month, where a 32-year-old man died after riding Epic Universe’s new coaster, Stardust Racers. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive after the ride and later pronounced dead. The autopsy listed his cause of death as “multiple blunt impact injuries.”
That fatality followed a state safety report highlighting other hospitalizations at Universal Orlando Resort. The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Revenge of the Mummy, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure were all named in recent filings detailing on-site medical incidents. Each case underscored how established rides remain prone to emergencies.
Guests Stranded in Beijing
Thousands of miles away, Universal Studios Beijing has sparked its own controversy. Earlier this month, the park’s Jurassic Flyers attraction malfunctioned, stalling midair and leaving passengers suspended for nearly 40 minutes in the rain.
One rider, Mr. Song, described the coaster hanging sideways at its peak, with no staff communication as the minutes dragged on.
When the ordeal ended, guests said they were offered only toys as compensation. Refunds were denied, and no formal apology followed. “We were told to accept the gifts and leave immediately,” Song said.
Complaint Filed, Official Response Given
The group later filed a complaint through China’s government hotline. Officials investigating the ride attributed the malfunction to weather-linked mechanical failure. Park representatives told reporters the issue would be escalated internally, though no timeline for updates has been provided.
Song added that this was not his first problem at the resort. In 2024, he became trapped on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey after a sudden stall. That attraction has previously faced safety challenges elsewhere, including a lawsuit in Hollywood after a guest sustained spinal injuries.
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