A 32-year-old man with a preexisting spinal injury died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Epic Universe in Florida, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala became unresponsive while aboard the high-speed attraction Wednesday night, prompting emergency response from theme park staff and Orange County deputies. Despite revival attempts by firefighters and Universal emergency personnel, Zavala was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Orange-Osceola Chief Medical Examiner Joshua Stephany determined Thursday that Zavala died from multiple blunt impact injuries in what was ruled an accidental death. The medical examiner’s statement did not specify the location or nature of the injuries.
Zavala’s longtime girlfriend, who accompanied him to the park, informed deputies that he had a preexisting spinal condition requiring wheelchair use and was taking medication for his condition, according to the incident report.
The Stardust Racers attraction, which opened to the public in May, is a dual-launch coaster reaching speeds up to 62 mph at heights of 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track, according to Universal’s website.
Universal Orlando Resort’s Guide for Safety and Accessibility notes that “ride warning signs can be found at the entrance of each ride to help determine the attractions that are suitable for Guests based on their abilities.”
A Universal Orlando spokesperson confirmed the resort is cooperating fully with investigators examining the circumstances surrounding Zavala’s death.
The incident raises questions about theme park safety protocols for guests with disabilities and the effectiveness of warning systems designed to inform riders about potential health risks associated with high-intensity attractions.
Zavala’s family established a GoFundMe account to cover funeral and memorial expenses, describing him as having “an old soul, wise beyond his years, with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding.”
“Despite the restrictions and obstacles he encountered throughout his life, Kevin met them all with grace, strength, and an unwavering spirit,” his family wrote. “He overcame so much, and he did so with quiet resilience and humility.”
The case highlights ongoing discussions about accessibility and safety measures at major theme parks, particularly regarding guests with preexisting medical conditions who choose to experience high-thrill attractions.
