Epic Universe Roller Coaster Rider’s Death Ruled Accidental, Ride Remains Closed

ORLANDO, Fla., September 19, 2025 - Theme park officials confirmed today that 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died from multiple blunt impact injuries after becoming unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe on September 17. Nut Graf: The Orange-Osceola Chief Medical Examiner ruled Zavala’s death accidental, prompting a full investigation and indefinite closure of the ride. Universal Orlando and local authorities are cooperating as guests await clarity on safety measures.

Investigation Under Way, Ride Closure Continues

  • Off-duty Orange County deputies responded to a “man down” call aboard Stardust Racers and transported Zavala to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
  • Autopsy findings released September 18 cited “multiple blunt impact injuries” as the cause of death, with no evidence of a fall from the coaster.
  • Universal Orlando has marked Stardust Racers as “Temporarily Closed” in its mobile app, with no timeline for reopening, and issued condolences to Zavala’s family while pledging full cooperation with authorities.

Stardust Racers Safety Questions Intensify

Universal’s new $7 billion Epic Universe park opened in May 2025 with five immersive lands, including Celestial Park, home to the high-velocity, dual-launch Stardust Racers. The 5,000-foot coaster accelerates riders to 62 mph and features an inverted crisscross known as the “Celestial Spin”.

Industry experts note that intense ride forces can exacerbate undiagnosed conditions, underscoring the importance of guest screening and adherence to posted health warnings. Previous non-fatal incidents on Stardust Racers involved riders with pre-existing conditions experiencing dizziness and numbness.

What Guests Should Know

  • Guests planning visits should monitor ride status via the Universal Orlando app; alternative headline attractions may see increased wait times while Stardust Racers remains offline.
  • Universal advises guests with medical conditions to heed posted ride restrictions and consult a physician before riding high-intensity coasters.

Next Steps

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office and Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner will continue their review of ride safety protocols, mechanical data and Zavala’s medical history. Universal has not announced any long-term changes but is expected to evaluate rider screening and coaster design parameters before resuming operations.