Final Report Released For Stardust Racers' Death
Back in September, a guest passed away after riding the Stardust Racers coaster. Find out what the final report has to say.
Stardust Racers Tragedy
On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, an Epic Universe Visitor passed away after a ride on Stardust Racers, the park's biggest thrill ride. According to Universal, the guest rode Stardust Racers and was found unresponsive after the ride ended. He was taken to the hospital and sadly passed away.
According to the Orange County Medical Examiner's Office, the Guest, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, died of "multiple blunt impact injuries." Zavala was 32 years old, and his death was ruled accidental.
In a newsletter to Team Members from the President and COO, Karen Irwin, the attraction operated as anticipated, and Team Members followed protocols. You can see the full letter HERE.
Stardust Racers Reopens
On the afternoon of October 4, 2025 Stardust Racers reopened to guests. Irwin shared, "Our extensive review was conducted working closely with local officials, and the state of Florida observed the testing and reviewed the results."
A third-party rollercoaster expert was brought in to conduct their own on-site testing. Their findings confirmed Universal's investigation.
With the reopening of Stardust Racers also came an updated Guide for Safety and Accessibility. You can read the changes that Universal made HERE.
Final Report
Wesh 2 reported that the Orange County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) has issued a final report on this case. OCSO ruled that Zavala's death to be accidental. It was also shared that no criminal acts occurred and the case is now closed. Sworn statements, video, and the medical examiner's report were used to resolve this case.
No criminal acts occurred, the death is ruled accidental, and the case is now closed.
The final report included that Zavala's girlfriend, who rode the attraction with him, stated that it took several attempts for the lap bar to be secured. She reports that she can't remember much, but that he hit his head several times. She also remembers trying to hold him back, but was unable.
A doctor was in line waiting to ride Stardust Racers when Zavala's train returned to the station. The doctor jumped into help. She reported that Zavala's femur appeared to be broken and she checked him for a pulse. WFLA News Channel 8 reported it took 10 minutes for the lap bar to be released to remove Zavala from the ride.
Zavala's family has retained a lawyer, Ben Crump, but no lawsuit has been filed at this time.
We continue to keep those impacted by this incident in our thoughts and prayers.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Heather loves all things Disney! She loves visiting her "home" as a Disney Vacation Club Member or participating in a runDisney event!
