ORLANDO, Fla. – The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, who died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump. Crump is calling for the release of video footage, ride data and other information to clarify the circumstances surrounding Zavala’s death.
Zavala was found unresponsive after riding the coaster last week and later died. The medical examiner ruled his death an accident caused by “multiple blunt impact injuries.”
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“This tragic loss demands a thorough investigation and full transparency,” Crump said in a statement Monday. “A man died after boarding a ride that should have been safe.”
An incident report obtained by News 6 in Orlando revealed Zavala had a preexisting spinal injury, though it is unclear if that contributed to the accident. Universal Orlando’s safety guidelines state that Stardust Racers is “not for guests with back, neck or similar physical conditions.”
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death and exploring the possibility of negligence. “Detectives are attempting to determine if there is any culpable negligence or a crime that occurred,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Universal Orlando Resort President and COO Karen Irwin said in an internal letter to employees that the ride “functioned as intended” and that all equipment was intact before, during and after the ride.
The Florida Department of Agriculture said its findings align with Universal’s after reviewing tests and information. The department said the investigation is ongoing and more details will be released as available.
The roller coaster, which towers about 133 feet, has been closed since the incident as investigators continue to piece together what happened. Deputies told News 6 Zavala was found unresponsive after the ride and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
A GoFundMe page set up for Zavala described him as “truly one of a kind” with “a heart full of compassion, love and understanding.” It added that he “always made time to listen, offer thoughtful advice and lift others up.”