A 32-year-old wheelchair-bound man died from severe head trauma on Universal Studios Florida’s Stardust Racers roller coaster after losing consciousness during the ride, but investigators determined park staff followed all proper safety procedures before declaring his death an accident.

Tragic Incident Unfolds on High-Speed Coaster

Kevin Rodriguez Zavala visited Epic Universe at Universal Resort in Orlando on September 17 with his girlfriend when tragedy struck on the Stardust Racers attraction. The ride reaches speeds of 62 miles per hour across its 5,000-foot track. Rodriguez suddenly passed out after being secured in his seat, causing his body to slam repeatedly against the cart as the coaster continued its course at full speed.

Bodycam footage obtained by News 6 captured the chaotic scene as first responders arrived to find Rodriguez unresponsive. His girlfriend described desperately trying to protect him during the ride. She told officers she saw him lift from his seat on the first drop and strike his head on a safety bar. Despite her attempts to hold him steady, the force of the coaster made it impossible to prevent additional impacts. Emergency crews transported Rodriguez to a hospital where doctors pronounced him dead from multiple blunt force injuries.

Safety Investigation and New Requirements

Park employees confirmed Rodriguez had been properly fastened into his seat before the ride began. He used a wheelchair due to a previous spinal injury. Witnesses at the scene reported severe facial trauma and significant blood loss. The disturbing condition of his body after the ride left onlookers shocked, according to incident reports. Universal temporarily closed the attraction while authorities conducted a thorough safety review of all procedures and mechanical systems.

Changes Implemented After Investigation

Investigators concluded that ride operators had followed every required safety protocol correctly, leading officials to classify the death as an accident. However, Universal implemented new restrictions when Stardust Racers reopened to the public. The park now requires all guests with disabilities to demonstrate the ability to walk independently without assistance before boarding the high-speed roller coaster. This policy change aims to prevent similar incidents while maintaining access for guests who can safely experience the attraction. The investigation found no mechanical failures or operator errors contributed to Rodriguez’s death.