Investigation Underway After Man with Spinal Condition Dies at Universal’s Epic Universe Ride

Orlando, Fla. — A 32‑year‑old man died under tragic circumstances after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort’s new Epic Universe park. The Orange‑Osceola Chief Medical Examiner has ruled his death “accidental,” stating that it was caused by “multiple blunt impact injuries.”

The Incident

On the evening of September 17, 2025, theme park visitors watched in alarm as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala became unresponsive shortly after riding the Stardust Racers— a dual launch roller coaster known for reaching speeds up to 62 mph (100 km/h). Rescue crews, including both Universal’s ride staff and Orlando first responders, attempted CPR at the ride platform before transporting Zavala to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Medical Findings

The medical examiner, Dr. Joshua Stephany, confirmed that Zavala’s cause of death was “multiple blunt impact injuries,” and that the manner of death was accidental.  The autopsy did not, however, provide detailed anatomical breakdowns—that is, specific information about which parts of his body were injured was not released.

Preexisting Condition and Context

Investigators confirmed that Zavala had a preexisting spinal condition, and used a wheelchair. He also was on medication.  According to reports, his longtime girlfriend was with him when the incident occurred. Witnesses on the ride reported that Zavala was “slumped over” and bleeding when the ride stopped.

Response by Universal and Authorities

Universal Orlando Resort has stated that its ride systems, including mechanical components of the Stardust Racers coaster, were functioning normally at the time of the incident. The company also said that safety procedures had been followed. State regulators from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services also conducted inspections and found results consistent with Universal’s internal findings—i.e., that there was no malfunction found in the ride equipment.

As part of the ongoing process, Universal has closed the Stargust Racers attraction while the investigation continues and requested cooperation from its ride manufacturer.

Family, Community, and Character

Zavala’s family released statements describing him as resilient and full of spirit. They said that despite the challenges posed by his spinal condition and the need for a wheelchair, he met everyday obstacles with dignity, determination, and kindness.  Friends, visitors, and park guests expressed shock and concern, demanding transparency and accountability.

Outstanding Questions & Expert Commentary

Several unanswered questions remain, and experts say those will be central to understanding how such a tragedy occurred. Among them:

• Did Zavala’s preexisting condition contribute significantly to his susceptibility to injury during the ride?
• At what point he became unresponsive—was it before injuries occurred, or did trauma during the ride cause him to lose consciousness?
• The precise locations of the blunt impact injuries (head, chest, internal organs, etc.) have not been disclosed.

Emergency medicine specialists and ride‑safety consultants have noted that mechanical function and rider positioning are both critical in determining risk, especially for people with known physical limitations.

Safety, Regulations, and Theme Park Practices

Epic Universe, which includes Stardust Racers, only opened in May 2025. The ride is promoted on Universal’s site as a “breathtaking, dual‑launch coaster” with intense speed and track dynamics.Under Florida law, major theme parks like Universal are exempt from routine state safety inspections that smaller parks and fairs must undergo; however, they must report serious injuries or deaths. The parks typically maintain their own inspection and safety regimes.

What Happens Next

The ride remains closed pending a thorough investigation. Universal and state authorities are collecting maintenance records, inspection logs, ride data, and potentially video footage in order to piece together what occurred.Legal experts say these materials will be key in determining any liability or safety gaps.

The findings of the medical examiner are final in terms of cause of death being blunt impact injuries, but establishing whether those injuries were avoidable or exacerbated by external or internal factors (such as preexisting health) will be essential.

Broader Implications & Reaction

This event has stirred public concern about theme park safety, especially for guests with mobility challenges or known medical conditions. While amusement parks are typically considered safe, accidents—when they happen—often raise questions about policy, oversight, and the adequacy of ride restrictions or warnings.

Universal’s leadership has issued heartfelt statements expressing sorrow over Zavala’s death and emphasizing a commitment to safety. Meanwhile, Zavala’s family, supported by legal counsel, is calling for full transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s death at Epic Universe is officially ruled an accident caused by multiple blunt impact injuries. Yet, many elements remain under investigation, including whether his preexisting spinal condition played a role, how quickly medical intervention occurred, and whether ride safety standards and procedures could have prevented this tragedy. As the investigation continues, Universal Orlando, state regulators, and Zavala’s loved ones are seeking answers—both to understand what went wrong, and to help ensure something like this does not happen again.