Tragic Death on Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers Ride in Orlando

A devastating tragedy occurred at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park on September 17, 2025. Kevin Zavala, a 32-year-old guest, became unresponsive while riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster, a high-speed dueling coaster known for its sharp turns and launches. Emergency crews responded quickly, and Zavala was transported to a nearby hospital, but he was later pronounced dead.

According to AP News, his cause of death has been ruled accidental, citing multiple blunt impact injuries. What remains unclear is whether those injuries were caused by the ride’s forces, a restraint issue, or another mechanical or design factor. Universal has temporarily closed the attraction and is cooperating with the investigation. The incident has sent shockwaves through the park’s visitors and the broader theme park industry, raising questions about the safety of high-intensity roller coasters and the oversight of amusement rides in Florida.

Why a Personal Injury Lawyer Is Needed

When tragedies like this happen, families are often left searching for answers while facing overwhelming grief. An amusement park personal injury lawyer can play a critical role in helping families during such difficult times. Legal representation is essential because of the following:

• Investigation into Negligence
  Lawyers can investigate whether ride design, mechanical failure, improper maintenance, or operational errors contributed to the death. Even if the medical examiner rules a death accidental, that does not rule out negligence by the park or its operators.
  
• Access to Evidence
  Theme parks and ride manufacturers often control the maintenance records, ride operation data, and surveillance footage. A lawyer can compel disclosure of these materials and work with safety experts to evaluate them.
  
• Accountability and Responsibility
  Major corporations have teams of attorneys working to minimize liability. Families need advocates who will fight to ensure the park, contractors, or manufacturers are held accountable if safety failures played a role.
  
• Compensation for Losses
  Beyond medical and funeral costs, a wrongful death claim can address the devastating financial and emotional impact on surviving family members, including lost income, loss of companionship, and future security.
  
• Public Safety
  Lawsuits not only help grieving families but can also drive systemic change. Holding parks accountable can lead to stronger safety protocols, better maintenance, and greater transparency to prevent future tragedies.
  

Call the Doan Law Firm Today

Losing a loved one in such a sudden and tragic way is unimaginable. Families deserve clear answers, compassionate support, and strong legal advocacy to uncover what really happened and to pursue justice. If your family has been affected by this or a similar incident, don’t navigate this process alone.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have spent years helping families through wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We understand both the emotional toll and the legal complexities that come with holding powerful companies accountable.

If you have lost someone in a theme park or amusement ride accident, contact our law firm today. We will provide a free consultation, investigate your case thoroughly, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the compensation your family deserves.