Epic Universe Rider’s Death on Stardust Racers Linked to Blunt Force Trauma
“The loss of Kevin Zavala has shaken not only his family and friends but also raised new questions about safety oversight at Florida’s biggest theme parks.”
What Happened
A tragic accident has closed one of Epic Universe’s premier roller coasters after a rider died following a high-speed run on the Stardust Racers. Authorities confirmed the victim as Kevin Zavala, who sustained “multiple blunt impact injuries” according to the Orange County Medical Examiner. Investigators have ruled the death an accident, though the Orange County Sheriff’s Office continues to probe the circumstances. Deputies reported that Zavala was found unresponsive when the ride concluded. Universal Orlando’s health services attempted CPR on the platform next to the tracks before Zavala was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Pre-Existing Condition in Spotlight
An incident report obtained by News 6 Orlando revealed that Zavala had a preexisting spinal injury, though investigators have not determined whether it played a role in his death. Universal’s own safety guide explicitly warns that the coaster is “not for guests with back, neck, or similar physical conditions.” The ride, a dueling roller coaster that towers 133 feet, remains closed indefinitely as the investigation continues.
Eyewitness Accounts
Maria Fernandez, another guest riding opposite Zavala on Stardust Racers, told News 6 she saw him slump forward mid-ride. “I saw blood, and his leg looked broken,” she recalled. “I don’t know if he was dead in that moment, but I think yes.” Video shared with reporters appears to show an unresponsive rider in Zavala’s car as the coaster pulled into the station.
Community Reaction
Outside the park, Zavala’s family and friends are mourning. A GoFundMe campaign describes him as “truly one of a kind” and “a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding.” The fundraiser, which initially sought $16,000, raised over $15,000 within days and later increased its target to $28,000. Photos on the page show Zavala using a wheelchair, further highlighting the questions around his spinal condition and the risks of high-intensity thrill rides.
Safety Oversight Under Scrutiny
Epic Universe, which opened in May, is Florida’s newest theme park. But like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando’s other parks, it is exempt from state ride inspections a controversial carveout that allows the state’s biggest attractions to conduct internal safety checks. By law, they must still report serious injuries and deaths to the state.
State records show that since Stardust Racers opened, only two other riders reported medical issues: a 63-year-old man who experienced dizziness and a 47-year-old woman who suffered a visual disturbance. Both had preexisting conditions.
What Comes Next
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is leading the ongoing investigation into Zavala’s death. Universal Orlando has not given a timeline for reopening Stardust Racers. The case underscores the delicate balance between thrill-seeking attractions, personal health risks, and the public’s trust in theme park safety, especially at a time when Florida’s oversight system leaves the largest operators largely to police themselves.
For now, one of Epic Universe’s star rides remains silent, as the community mourns Kevin Zavala and investigators search for answers.
