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Orlando, FL - Investigators have confirmed that the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe was functioning properly when 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive after riding it on September 17th.
According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, their preliminary findings align with Universal Orlando Resort’s internal review.
Both concluded that ride systems were operating as intended, equipment was intact throughout the ride, and staff followed safety procedures.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Zavala, a wheelchair user with a pre-existing spinal injury, was found unresponsive after riding the dual-launch coaster, which reaches speeds up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet.
He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The medical examiner ruled the cause of death as multiple blunt impact injuries and classified the manner of death as accidental.
The ride, which opened in May 2025, has been temporarily closed while Universal Orlando Resort conducts a full review in cooperation with the ride’s manufacturer.
The company has expressed condolences to Zavala’s family and is fully cooperating with the investigation.
Zavala’s family, represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, has requested access to maintenance logs, inspection records, ride data, and video footage to understand the circumstances of his death.
The incident has raised questions regarding ride safety and accessibility for guests with pre-existing medical conditions. Investigators continue to examine all factors to determine if any negligence occurred.