Authorities have determined the cause of death of a man who tragically passed away during a rollercoaster ride at Universal Studios.
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, aged 32, lost his life after riding the new Stardust Racers roller coaster at the Florida theme park on September 17. His girlfriend, who was seated beside him, informed investigators that during the initial part of the ride, Kevin suddenly moved forward, hitting his head on the metal lap bar, which rendered him unconscious. Subsequently, he continued to hit his head multiple times throughout the ride as she tried to restrain him.
A medical examiner has officially classified the death as accidental, attributing it to “multiple blunt force injuries.”
The Orange County Medical Examiner’s office concluded that there were no indications of any criminal activity leading up to Mr. Zavala’s unfortunate demise, thereby closing the investigation.
Kevin, who had a history of orthopedic issues due to being born with spinal cord atrophy, including a prior hip dislocation and fractured femur, was a frequent visitor to theme parks. At Universal, he was assisted onto the Stardust Racers ride using a standard “lateral transfer” device meant for guests with mobility challenges. Park staff described the transfer process as routine, confirming that Kevin consented to it, and had his lap bar checked and verified electronically before the ride commenced.
During questioning by investigators, his girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz-Robles, mentioned that employees had to press down on his lap bar multiple times to activate the safety indicator, although Kevin did not display any signs of pain or discomfort.
As the rollercoaster descended its first hill, Kevin unexpectedly lurched forward, hitting his head on the metal bar, sustaining further head injuries despite her efforts to prevent it.
An excerpt from the investigator’s statement in the report stated: “She believed he was secured in, however when the ride began the first downhill Kevin flew forward striking his head. She stated she seen Kevin hit his head multiple times. She attempted to hold him back but couldn’t do so.”
“Javiliz was crying for help but due to being in the middle of the ride no one heard her screaming for help until the train cart was getting close to the station.”
At the conclusion of the ride, witnesses observed Kevin “slumped over with blood coming from his head” with his “left leg was at a 90 degree angle in between the lap bar.”
He was swiftly transported to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Prior to his death, Kevin’s mother expressed a desire for clarity surrounding her son’s passing, emphasizing the need for closure to honor him and find solace.
Stardust Racers, a high-speed dual-launch roller coaster with a top speed of 62mph, made its debut in May at Universal Orlando Resort’s newest park opening to the public. Following the incident in September, the ride was temporarily closed for 17 days for internal and external investigations before resuming operations.
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