Ava McDonnell
A tragic accident occurred at Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe theme park this past Wednesday, September 17. When 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lost his life shortly after riding the park’s newest roller coaster, Stardust Racers.
Stardust Racers is a dual-launch roller coaster that opened in May 2025 as part of the Celestial Park area at Epic Universe. The ride reaches speeds of up to 62 miles per hour and features a 5,000-foot-long track with an inverted “Celestial Spin” maneuver. Standing approximately 133 feet tall, it simulates a cosmic race between two comet-themed vehicles.
Zavala, a Kissimmee resident who used a wheelchair, became unresponsive immediately after riding the high-speed attraction. Emergency responders transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Zavala died from multiple blunt impact injuries, ruling the death accidental.
This tragic event follows two earlier medical incidents on Stardust Racers earlier this summer. On June 22, a 63-year-old male guest reported dizziness and altered consciousness linked to a pre-existing condition. Two days later, a 47-year-old female guest experienced visual disturbances and numbness, also attributed to pre-existing health issues. Both incidents were documented in the Florida Department of Agriculture’s quarterly safety report.
Despite these occurrences, Universal Orlando enforces strict safety measures on all thrill rides, including Stardust Racers. Riders must meet a minimum height of 4 feet, and those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, back or neck issues, sensitivity to strobe lights or motion, and expectant mothers are advised against riding. Security procedures include storing loose items in lockers and passing through metal detectors before boarding.
Remembering Kevin Rodriguez Zavala
Zavala was known among friends and family for his courageous and adventurous spirit. Despite using a wheelchair, he embraced life fully and was described as “one of a kind.” His passing has left a deep impact on his loved ones and the wider community. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to honor his memory and support his family during this difficult time.
Universal Orlando Resort has expressed profound condolences and is fully cooperating with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Stardust Racers attraction remains closed pending the outcome of this inquiry.
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