Kevin Zavala Dies After Roller Coaster Accident at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. (Sept. 19, 2025) - Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old Kissimmee resident, died Wednesday night after becoming unresponsive during a ride on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe theme park in Orlando.

The Orange County Medical Examiner ruled Zavala’s cause of death as multiple blunt impact injuries, classifying the manner of death as an accident. He was pronounced dead at Orlando Health Regional Medical Center following emergency resuscitation attempts at the ride platform.

Investigation Underway

Park officials and local authorities have launched a comprehensive probe into the incident:

  • Orange County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services investigators are reviewing ride videos, maintenance logs and witness statements.
  • Universal Orlando Resorts is fully cooperating and has kept Stardust Racers closed pending the outcome of the investigation.
  • Officials are examining Zavala’s pre-existing spinal condition, though initial reports indicate the ride’s forces likely contributed to his fatal injuries.

Family and Community Response

Zavala’s family and friends have described him as “one of a kind,” recalling his compassion and resilience despite lifelong health challenges:

  • A GoFundMe page set up in his memory raised nearly $15,000 toward funeral expenses by Friday afternoon.
  • Loved ones say Zavala never let his wheelchair define him and always lifted others, even while facing adversity.

Ride Details and Safety Measures

Stardust Racers, which opened in May 2025, is a dual-launch coaster featuring:

  • Two 5,000-foot racing tracks reaching speeds up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet.
  • Strict warnings advising guests with back, neck or similar physical conditions to avoid the attraction.
  • A no-loose-items policy requiring riders to secure belongings in lockers and pass through metal detectors.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as ride attendants and off-duty deputies performed CPR on the coaster platform before paramedics arrived.

Universal Orlando Resorts has affirmed daily, weekly and monthly safety inspections are conducted park-wide, and the incident will inform any future safety enhancements.