A tragic accident has shaken Universal Studios’ new Epic Universe theme park in Orlando after a man died following a ride on the Stardust Racers rollercoaster.
The Incident
According to PEOPLE, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala became unresponsive after riding the attraction on Sunday. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he later died from blunt impact injuries. Park officials say the case remains under active investigation.
Universal Studios released a statement offering condolences to Zavala’s family. “We are fully cooperating with Orange County and the ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed,” a spokesperson told PEOPLE. Park officials have not confirmed when the ride will reopen.
About Stardust Racers
The Stardust Racers ride opened in May 2025 and quickly became one of Epic Universe’s standout attractions. Reaching speeds of 62 miles per hour, the coaster was marketed as a high-thrill experience for adrenaline seekers. Now, just months after its debut, it’s under intense scrutiny following the fatal incident. [media placement suggestion: stock photo of rollercoaster with alt text “Stardust Racers rollercoaster at Universal Epic Universe”]
Safety Concerns And Investigation
Theme park accidents are rare but not unheard of, especially with newer high-speed rides. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation to determine if a mechanical failure, operational issue, or health-related cause contributed to Zavala’s death. Safety experts stress that even well-maintained attractions can pose risks, particularly for individuals with underlying medical conditions.