Archive · 22 Sep 2025
Universal: Roller Coaster 'Functioned as Intended' Before Death
A person sadly died while riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando's new park, Epic Universe.
Universal's president says that the ride was working normally and the staff followed the rules.
The park is looking into what happened.
The ride has been closed while they investigate.
The coaster is a tall, fast ride, and the ride opened in May.
The person who passed away was 32 years old.
More details about the accident are still being gathered.
A park visitor died on the Stardust Racers roller coaster.
Universal's president said the ride 'functioned as intended'.
The park is conducting a comprehensive review.
The ride has been closed.
The incident occurred September 17th.
- Who
- Karen Irwin, president of Universal Orlando.
- What
- A park visitor died on the Stardust Racers roller coaster.
- When
- September 17th.
- Where
- Universal Epic Universe in Orlando.
- Why
- The cause is under investigation, but the medical examiner cited 'multiple blunt impact injuries'.
- Victim
- Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32
- Location of Incident
- Universal Epic Universe, Orlando
- Coaster Name
- Stardust Racers
- Coaster Type
- Dual-launch, two-train coaster
- Coaster Height
- 133 feet
- Coaster Speed
- 62 mph
- Official Statement
- Ride systems functioned as intended