Man who died on roller coaster had multiple blunt force injuries, FL coroner says

An unusual death investigation has been launched at one of Orlando’s newest amusement parks after a man became unresponsive on one of the thrill rides, according to detectives in Florida.

He has been identified as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, and Chief Medical Examiner Joshua Stephany says the cause of death was an accident due to “multiple blunt impact injuries.”

“On September 17, 2025, off-duty deputies responded to a man down call at Epic Universe,” the sheriff’s office told McClatchy News in a release.

“A man ... was found unresponsive after riding a roller coaster and was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. It’s very early in the investigation and we have no further information for release at this time.”

Epic Universe opened in May and is “comprised of four theme parks that are home to the most innovative theme park experiences ever created,” according to an NBC Universal news release.

Universal issued a statement noting the death happened Wednesday night and involved Stardust Racers, a “dual-launch” roller coast that is closed as part of the ongoing investigation.

“We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones,” Universal said in the release.

Stardust Racers is described on the park’s website as “a shooting star across the cosmos.”

“Board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, at heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track,” the park says of the ride. “Race along an inverted crisscross, known as the ‘Celestial Spin’ in a dazzling display of blazing colors and ethereal music.”

This story was originally published September 18, 2025 at 9:18 AM with the headline "Man who died on roller coaster had multiple blunt force injuries, FL coroner says."