The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has released an 11-page incident report detailing the tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who lost consciousness and ultimately died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe. This report presents the most comprehensive timeline of events surrounding the incident, including interviews with first responders, Zavala’s girlfriend, and his parents.
The investigation confirmed that Zavala’s death was accidental, a conclusion already established by the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office. There were no criminal acts identified during the investigation, which has now concluded.
According to the report, Zavala suffered significant facial injuries and severe blood loss, leading witnesses, including a doctor present at the scene, to note that his femur appeared broken. When the ride returned to the station, Zavala was unresponsive, with no pulse, and was found with his arm hanging off the side of the ride car.
Zavala’s girlfriend, who was on the ride with him, mentioned that staff struggled multiple times to secure his lap bar before receiving approval to launch. She recounted watching him hit his head against the metal lap bar multiple times throughout the ride, initially believing he was secured.
The timeline provided in the report is critical. It states that ride staff began assisting Zavala at 8:54 PM, and the ride launched shortly after at 8:57 PM. During its course, there were indications that he was engaged and well until the ride concluded at 8:58:28 PM, when he was found unresponsive.
A doctor, who was next in line for the ride, became involved when she heard cries for help and witnessed Zavala already in a dire state. She attempted to assist but found him without a pulse and noted severe injuries to his legs and head that could have contributed to his situation.
Zavala’s parents shared that he had a history of spinal cord atrophy and had undergone several surgeries throughout his life, including for previous injuries. Despite expressing concerns about their son’s pursuit of thrill rides, they noted his passion for theme parks.
The report also includes statements from Universal employees, who explained that Zavala was deemed fit to ride and was assisted as needed through specialized equipment designed for guests who require help transferring. After being secured and cleared, the employees did not anticipate the tragic outcome of the ride.
This incident raises important questions about ride safety, especially regarding individuals with prior medical conditions. The community continues to mourn Zavala’s loss while reflecting on the significance of safety protocols for all guests. With thorough investigative reports now available, it is hoped that such incidents can inform future practices to ensure the safety and well-being of all theme park visitors.