Autopsy and sheriff rule Universal Orlando roller coaster death accidental after Stardust Racers ride
Authorities have ruled the death of Kevin Rodriguez‑Zavala, who suffered fatal blunt‑force injuries after riding Stardust Racers at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe on Sept. 17, 2025, an accidental death following a months‑long investigation, and no criminality was found.
Key takeaways
- Ruling: The Orange County Medical Examiner and Sheriff’s Office classified the death as accidental; no criminal charges were filed.
- Injuries: Autopsy found multiple blunt‑force impact injuries, severe facial trauma and internal bleeding.
- Ride sequence: Video and witness accounts show Rodriguez‑Zavala lurched forward and struck his head during the ride; staff response and restraint checks have been questioned.
- Resolution: Universal reached an amicable legal resolution with the family; details remain private.
Timeline and witness accounts
What happened on Sept. 17, 2025: Security video and eyewitnesses indicate Rodriguez‑Zavala was alert at dispatch and became unsteady as the train crested the first hill. Witnesses say he lurched forward and struck his head on a metal bar during the initial drop. His girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz‑Robles, told investigators that ride operators pushed the lap bar down three or four times before dispatch and that she was unable to hold him back during the drop; she screamed for help as the train continued. WUSF, FOX 35, and ABC News reported on the sequence.
Condition on the vehicle and emergency response
At the end of the circuit video shows Rodriguez‑Zavala slumped and bleeding from the face, with his legs inverted while still secured by the lap bar. A Universal paramedic described him as
“stuck on the ride vehicle face down, falling out of his seat, with legs inverted.”
Staff took approximately 10 minutes to release the lap bar and extract him; he was transported to a hospital and pronounced dead that night. (ABC News, WUSF)
Autopsy and injuries
The Orange County Medical Examiner’s autopsy listed the cause of death as multiple blunt‑impact injuries and classified the manner of death as accidental. Findings included severe facial trauma, a broken nose, extensive bruising, internal bleeding and a fractured femur described by a treating doctor as “completely broken in half.” The report emphasizes the injuries resulted from blunt impacts incurred during the ride. (ABC News, WUSF, FOX 35).
Pre‑existing disability and medical history
Rodriguez‑Zavala arrived at Epic Universe in a wheelchair and had metal rods in his back from prior spinal surgery; he reportedly had no use of his legs. His mother had expressed concerns about him riding coasters given his spine history. Family representatives and an on‑scene physician told investigators the spinal disability did not cause the fatal injuries — a conclusion supported by the medical examiner’s report. (WUSF, FOX 35.)
Investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office led a months‑long probe, reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining ride procedures and maintenance logs. Investigators determined the Stardust Racers train operated normally and found no signs of mechanical failure or criminal wrongdoing, closing the case as an accidental death. (ABC News, WUSF, FOX 35).
Ride description: Stardust Racers and Epic Universe
Stardust Racers is a dual‑launch coaster at Epic Universe that reaches speeds up to 62 mph and heights near 133 feet. Park statements and ride specifications note the design and safety systems follow industry standards for restraint and operations. (ClickOrlando).
Family response and legal resolution
The family was represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, asserting that Rodriguez‑Zavala’s disability did not cause his death and seeking accountability. Universal Orlando later reached an amicable legal resolution with the family; the family subsequently requested privacy and details of the agreement were not publicly released. (WUSF, ClickOrlando, Blooloop).
Safety, training and response questions
Witness accounts that operators had to push the lap bar several times before dispatch and the delay in staff response have prompted scrutiny over restraint checks and emergency procedures. While investigators concluded the ride functioned correctly, the incident has raised public questions about:
- Restraint verification procedures and whether additional checks are needed for riders with mobility aids.
- Operator training and the timing of emergency interventions when riders call for help while a train is in motion.
- The need for clearer public guidance on accessibility, medical restrictions and pre‑ride screening.
Broader implications: local, global and practical lessons
Economic and reputational effects: High‑profile incidents can affect visitor perceptions and attendance; transparent investigations and clear safety messaging help preserve trust.
Regulatory and policy considerations: International regulators and consumer groups may use the findings to advocate for stronger standards in restraint testing, ride design and staff training.
Accessibility and inclusion: The case highlights the tension between making attractions accessible and ensuring safety for riders with disabilities; it may spur reviews of how parks balance accommodation with risk management.
Practical advice for visitors: Check ride restrictions, medical guidance and park accessibility policies in advance; consult medical professionals and guest services if you have a medical history that could increase risk.
Sources and further reading
- ABC News: No criminality found in Epic Universe roller coaster death
- WUSF: Man’s death after Universal Orlando roller coaster ruled accidental
- FOX 35 Orlando: Medical examiner releases detailed report on Stardust Racers death
- ClickOrlando: Universal reaches resolution with family of man who died after riding Stardust Racers
- Blooloop: Universal, Zavala family reach resolution
