On September 17, 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala rode the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida, and sadly became unresponsive. Despite immediate medical attention and CPR performed by Universal Orlando Health Services and Orange County Fire Rescue, Zavala was pronounced dead at the hospital at 10:05 pm.
Kevin had a pre-existing spinal injury and used a wheelchair. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded to the medical emergency but no 911 calls were made. Zavala was found with a laceration, though specific details about it remain undisclosed.
Universal Orlando issued a statement expressing deep condolences and confirmed full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The ride remains closed while authorities, including the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, continue looking into the incident. The medical examiner ruled Zavala’s death accidental due to multiple blunt impact injuries.
Kevin’s family has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump and set up a GoFundMe to assist with funeral costs. The family describes Kevin as compassionate and strong, highlighting the tragic loss felt by many.
