ORLANDO, Fla. — After a closure lasting more than two weeks, Universal’s Epic Universe has officially reopened its Stardust Racers roller coaster — the ride that was shut down following a tragic incident in mid-September.
On September 17, 2025, 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lost his life after becoming unresponsive during a ride on Stardust Racers. The Orange County medical examiner ruled the cause of death as multiple blunt impact injuries and classified the manner of death as accidental.
In the days following the incident, Universal Orlando Resort closed the ride to allow for detailed investigations, inspections, and reviews of both technical systems and operational procedures.
The ride reopened on October 4, roughly 17 days after it was shut down. Universal President and COO Karen Irwin said in an internal memo that a comprehensive technical and operational review had been completed, and that tests confirmed the ride systems functioned properly during boarding, operation, and return to station. Independent engineers, the ride’s manufacturer Mack Rides, and state officials all participated in the inspections.
Universal introduced updated signage and rider eligibility requirements as precautionary measures. Key changes include the removal of language that previously allowed assisted entry for guests using mobility devices, requiring instead that riders be able to walk independently to board. The signage now uses “must” instead of “should” in statements about riders’ ability to maintain control of their bodies during the ride. Universal also reinforced physical eligibility warnings to help guests assess whether they should ride.
The park also removed Stardust Racers from the list of attractions where team members assist guests in wheelchairs, a policy that aligns with the updated requirements.
On reopening day, wait times reached as high as two hours, with guests saying they felt safe and appreciated the clearer guidance. However, Zavala’s family and their attorney, Ben Crump, criticized Universal for reopening before independent experts could fully inspect the ride. Crump accused the park of “spoiling evidence” by resuming operations too soon.
The family released a statement condemning the decision, calling it disrespectful and premature. They plan to hold a press conference this week to express their concerns as the state’s investigation into the death continues. Universal has said it is cooperating fully with authorities.
Stardust Racers is a dual-launched steel coaster in the Celestial Park area of Epic Universe, reaching speeds up to 62 mph and standing 133 feet tall. It opened with the launch of the park in May 2025 and quickly became one of its signature thrill attractions.
The reopening marks a delicate moment for Universal, which says the ride has been deemed safe following inspection. But as the investigation continues, the park faces continued scrutiny over its handling of the incident and its commitment to transparency and safety.
