Attorneys representing the family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man who died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe theme park, say his spinal disability played no role in his death. Instead, they believe he suffered fatal head injuries during the ride.
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What Attorneys Say Happened
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, speaking for the family, said Zavala likely struck his head on the restraint during sharp downward thrusts, rendering him unconscious for much of the ride.
“They are quick to say the ride worked as it was supposed to. But just because it didn’t malfunction doesn’t mean there weren’t safety issues,” Crump said. “Something caused him to die.”
Who Kevin Rodriguez Zavala Was
Zavala, who used a wheelchair due to a spinal disability from birth, was described by family as a theme park enthusiast and avid gamer with friends worldwide. He worked as an employment counselor for people with disabilities, helping others find and keep jobs.
His father, Carlos Rodriguez, said:
“He was an extraordinary young man.”
Family members emphasized that his disability never stopped him from living independently—he drove, cooked for himself, and enjoyed life fully.
Universal Orlando’s Response
Universal Orlando Resort president Karen Irwin said in a note to employees that internal reviews showed the ride’s systems functioned normally and all procedures were followed.
“Safety is, and always will be, at the forefront of everything we do,” Irwin said.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services echoed those findings, stating early investigations revealed no ride malfunctions.
The Stardust Racers roller coaster, which reaches speeds up to 62 mph (100 kph), remains closed pending a full review.
Medical Examiner’s Findings
The Orlando medical examiner’s office ruled Zavala’s death as an accident caused by multiple blunt impact injuries.
Family attorneys, however, argue witnesses reported seeing Zavala’s head repeatedly strike the restraint. They have launched an independent investigation, hiring experts in ride safety, design, and operations.
“His disability did not kill him,” attorney Natalie Jackson said. “It was the blunt force trauma.”
What the Family Wants
The family is urging Universal to keep the ride closed until the cause of Zavala’s death is fully understood. They are also pushing for stronger safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala has sparked a debate over theme park ride safety standards. While officials insist the coaster functioned correctly, Zavala’s family maintains there are unanswered questions that demand accountability.