Police have officially determined the reason behind the death of a man who tragically passed away while riding a rollercoaster at Universal Studios.
The man, identified as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, aged 32, met his demise after experiencing the new Stardust Racers roller coaster at the Florida-based theme park on September 17. According to his girlfriend, who was seated beside him, Kevin leaned forward on the initial segment of the ride, hitting his head on the metal lap bar and losing consciousness. Subsequently, he suffered multiple head injuries throughout the ride as she attempted to restrain him.
The medical examiner has concluded that the death was accidental, attributing it to “multiple blunt force injuries.” The Orange County Medical Examiner’s investigation found no evidence of any criminal activity leading up to Mr. Zavala’s death.
Kevin, who had a medical history including spinal cord atrophy and previous orthopedic issues like hip dislocation and a fractured femur, was a frequent visitor to theme parks. At Universal Studios, he was assisted onto the Stardust Racers ride using a standard “lateral transfer” device meant for guests with mobility challenges. Staff confirmed that the transfer process was routine, with the lap bar checked and verified electronically before the ride commenced.
During questioning by investigators, Kevin’s girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz-Robles, mentioned that employees had to adjust his lap bar several times to activate the safety indicator, although he did not display signs of discomfort.
As the rollercoaster descended its first hill, Kevin suddenly lurched forward, striking his head on the metal bar, and continued to suffer head injuries during the ride despite her efforts to prevent it. An investigator’s statement in the report described her attempts to hold him back but was unsuccessful.
Witnesses reported that at the end of the ride, Kevin was found slumped over with blood coming from his head and his left leg wedged at a 90-degree angle between the lap bar. He was swiftly transported to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Following the incident in September, the Stardust Racers ride, a dual-launch roller coaster reaching speeds of up to 62mph, was temporarily closed for 17 days before reopening after internal and external investigations were conducted.
Kevin’s mother had expressed a desire for clarity regarding her son’s death, emphasizing the need for closure and peace in the wake of the tragedy.
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