In brief
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida. His family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, is seeking answers as other riders have come forward with similar traumatic experiences. Crump raised questions regarding the park's safety protocols and called for better oversight of large theme parks, following reports of prior injuries associated with the ride.
ORLANDO, Fla. — The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala is seeking answers following his tragic death on September 17 while riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal's Epic Universe theme park. Zavala, who had a spinal disability, died from blunt force injuries, and his attorney, Ben Crump, stated multiple individuals have shared similar accounts of alarming experiences on the ride.
A woman contacted the Zavala family, recounting how she lost consciousness and sustained injuries shortly after the roller coaster opened in May. Crump highlighted this communication, emphasizing the urgent need for answers and accountability from Universal.
We want these answers so we can be able to honor him. It is extremely difficult losing a son, and we do not wish this pain on anyone, Ana Zavala, Kevin's mother, expressed at a recent press conference.
The dual-launch coaster reportedly reaches speeds of up to 62 mph. Following Zavala's death, a Universal spokesperson stated their internal investigations revealed the ride systems functioned normally and protocols were followed. Meanwhile, the medical examiner deemed the death accidental.
Crump is demanding a review of safety across major theme parks, criticizing the current exemption of large venues like Universal and Disney from state safety inspections. There were warning signs that there was something wrong with the design of this ride, he remarked.
In addition to Zavala's situation, Universal faces separate lawsuits from riders claiming injuries from the roller coaster, sparking broader discussions on amusement ride safety standards in Florida.
Universal Orlando Resort's president defended the operational protocols, stating that they are committed to ensuring the safety of their guests.
