Who was the man who died at Universal’s Epic Universe and what caused his death?

Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe theme park has been shaken by tragedy after a man died following a ride on Stardust Racers, the park’s highly anticipated dual-launch roller coaster. The incident occurred on the evening of September 17, 2025, only four months after the park’s grand opening.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the guest became unresponsive after the coaster returned to the station. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead, sparking questions about what happened on one of Epic Universe’s most celebrated rides.

Victim Identified as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala

Authorities identified the victim as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. Zavala had reportedly visited the park with his girlfriend for a day of fun when tragedy struck. Witnesses said he appeared motionless as the ride vehicle pulled back into the station, prompting immediate emergency action from staff and bystanders.

FOX 35 Orlando spoke with a witness, Tommy Italiano, who described the tense moment when attendants began shouting for riders to evacuate. He recalled seeing Zavala “completely slouched over” in his seat and unresponsive, as a woman, reportedly a doctor, jumped the fence to provide assistance. Despite those efforts, Zavala’s condition did not improve.

Medical Examiner Confirms Cause of Death

The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy and determined Zavala died from multiple blunt impact injuries. His death was officially ruled accidental, though officials did not release further details about where the injuries occurred or how they were sustained during the ride.

Joshua Stephany, the chief medical examiner for Orlando, did not elaborate beyond the autopsy’s conclusion. Theme park safety experts have called the ruling “shocking,” noting that such findings raise more questions than answers. Some have speculated about whether restraints or rider positioning may have played a role, but investigators have not provided further clarification.

Universal’s Response and Ride Closure

In a statement, Universal Orlando Resort expressed condolences, saying: “We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the ongoing investigation.”

Universal confirmed that Stardust Racers was immediately shut down after the incident and remained closed the following day. The company has not said when the attraction will reopen, citing the active investigation. The closure has intensified public scrutiny on the ride, which was marketed as one of Epic Universe’s signature thrills.

Safety Questions and Theme Park Oversight

Florida law exempts the state’s largest theme parks, including Disney World and Universal, from direct state safety inspections. Instead, these companies conduct internal ride checks and are required to self-report any injuries or deaths. According to state records, Epic Universe had already logged three medical incidents since opening in May, though none as serious as Zavala’s death.

Theme park consultant Dennis Speigel told the Associated Press that the case leaves troubling uncertainty. “Was it the head or the chest? Was he banging around? Was he in his seat properly?” he asked, underscoring the lack of clarity. Without more details, experts say, questions about safety protocols and rider conditions will continue.

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Stardust Racers: A Ride Built for Thrill

Located in the park’s Celestial Park, Stardust Racers was promoted as a spiritual successor to the beloved Dueling Dragons coaster, which closed in 2017. The new ride features dual tracks, launches reaching 62 mph, and a height of 133 feet across 5,000 feet of track. Its “Celestial Spin” inversion was billed as a highlight for adrenaline seekers.

While guests rave about its speed and intensity, the ride also comes with strict safety rules. Visitors must stow away phones and loose objects in lockers before boarding, and health advisories warn those with medical conditions to avoid the experience. Zavala’s death, however, highlights the sobering risks of even the most carefully engineered attractions.

A Dark Moment in Epic Universe’s Early Months

Epic Universe opened to much celebration on May 22, 2025, hailed as the first major Florida theme park since 1999. With lands themed to Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and the Ministry of Magic, it was designed as Universal’s boldest expansion yet.

Now, just four months into its operation, the park is facing its first major tragedy. While Universal and investigators continue to piece together what happened, Zavala’s death will likely leave a lasting impact on how the public views both Stardust Racers and Epic Universe’s safety standards.

FAQ: Epic Universe Death

Who died at Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers ride?

Authorities identified the victim as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers on September 17, 2025.

What was the cause of death at Epic Universe?

The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death an accident caused by multiple blunt impact injuries, though no further details on the trauma were released.

What happened during the incident on Stardust Racers?

Witnesses reported a chaotic scene when the coaster returned to the station with Zavala slumped over in his seat. Staff quickly evacuated the ride, and a bystander attempted to provide aid before paramedics arrived.

Is Stardust Racers closed after the death?

Yes. Universal immediately closed Stardust Racers after the incident and has not yet announced when the ride will reopen.

How has Universal responded to the Epic Universe death?

Universal issued a statement expressing condolences to Zavala’s family and confirmed it is fully cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office investigation.

Has Epic Universe had other safety issues?

Since opening in May 2025, Epic Universe has reported a few health-related ride incidents to state regulators, including dizziness and chest pains, but Zavala’s death is the first fatality.

Are Florida theme parks inspected for ride safety?

Florida’s largest parks, including Universal and Disney, conduct their own ride inspections but must report injuries and fatalities to the state. This self-regulation model has come under renewed scrutiny following the incident.