US EditionMan’s Death on Roller Coaster at Universal Studios in Orlando Ruled Accidental
The Orange County Sheriff's Office ruled Kevin Rodriguez Zavala's death accidental with no criminal acts; Zavala had pre-existing spinal issues contributing to the fatal injuries.
- Today, investigators with the Orange County Sheriff's Office closed its investigation into the Stardust Racers roller coaster incident at Universal Epic Universe, concluding the death on September 17, 2025, was accidental with no criminal acts involved.
- According to the autopsy and on-scene doctor, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala had a lifelong spinal condition with metal rods and prior femur surgery, and the medical examiner ruled blunt-impact injuries as cause of death.
- Witnesses and video show the lap bar looked low and ride operators pushed it three times until locked, while Universal paramedic Sebastian Torres said staff struggled to release it for 10 minutes as Zavala hit his head repeatedly.
- Stardust Racers was closed after the incident and reopened on October 4, 2025, following reviews by Mack, an independent engineering expert, and Universal Orlando Resort, while attorney Ben Crump represents the Zavala family amid ongoing legal actions.
- The on-scene doctor described Zavala's femur as 'completely broken in half' and noted he was 'face down with legs inverted' after the ride stopped, with no 911 calls received, possibly due to theme-park phone-use policies.
65 Articles
65 Articles
Man's death on roller coaster at Epic Universe park in Florida ruled accident
A man who died while on a Florida roller coaster in September flew forward and struck his head on a seat multiple times, his girlfriend told investigators, according to a sheriff’s report released Thursday
Final Epic Universe Death Investigation Brings Answers — And Heartbreak — To Universal Orlando Fans
A final report reveals the big truth behind the tragedy that befell Universal Orlando Resort Epic Universe back in September, finally shedding light on what happened, why, and how it all went down when a devoted fan’s life was taken abruptly. Credit: Universal A Day at the Park Turns Tragic: New Details from Universal’s Epic Universe Incident Raise Serious Safety Questions It started as a perfect day — Florida sun shining overhead, the sound of …
Cause of death for man who died on Universal Studios rollercoaster revealed - The Mirror
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Studios Resort in Florida when his head slammed repeatedly against the lap bar in front of him
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 58% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
