The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has officially closed its investigation into the tragic death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, the guest who was found unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe earlier this year. The final report confirms there were no criminal acts, and the case has been ruled an accident.
This incident shook the theme park community when it happened in September, and now we have a clearer picture of what investigators found.
What the Final Investigation Revealed
According to the newly released report, deputies were dispatched to a “man down” call at Epic Universe. When they arrived, they found Zavala unresponsive in his seat near the back of the train. The scene was treated as a critical medical emergency and secured with crime scene tape. There were medical supplies scattered around the area as responders attempted life-saving measures.
Deputies noted a significant amount of blood on the ride vehicle, along with one of Zavala’s shoes on the ground. His wheelchair and the transfer chair used to load him onto the attraction were also documented by investigators.
The medical examiner had already determined that Zavala died from multiple blunt impact injuries, consistent with trauma sustained during the ride.
New Details from Witness Statements
One of the most striking parts of the report comes from Zavala’s girlfriend, who was riding beside him. She told investigators that right before dispatch, a ride operator pushed down repeatedly on Zavala’s lap bar to secure it. According to her, it took two to three attempts for the restraint to lock.
Once the coaster launched, she recalled seeing Zavala hit his head on the seat multiple times as the ride crested the first hill. She tried to hold him back, but the forces were far too strong. She said she screamed for help throughout the ride, but due to the coaster being mid-course, no one could hear her until it neared the station.
Another employee told investigators that Zavala suffered “significant” facial injuries and blood loss. An employee also directed operators to release the restraint so CPR could begin, with fire rescue arriving moments later.
No Criminal Acts Found
Despite the severity of the injuries, the sheriff’s office concluded that no criminal wrongdoing occurred. The incident has been classified entirely as an accident. Universal has cooperated with investigators throughout the process.
While the report does not assign specific fault to ride operations, restraint systems, or loading procedures, it does confirm that Zavala’s injuries happened within the first major hill of the coaster—meaning the fatal trauma occurred early in the ride cycle.
What This Means Going Forward
For months, fans and experts alike have wondered whether this tragedy could lead to major changes to Stardust Racers or even the wider ride safety protocols at Epic Universe.
Universal has stated from the beginning that they are devastated by what happened, and the attraction has remained closed since the incident. With the final report now released, the next steps will likely involve internal evaluations, potential modifications, and updated procedures before any consideration of reopening.
Stardust Racers was one of the standout thrill rides in Epic Universe, but this incident has cast a long shadow over its future.
Remembering Kevin Rodriguez Zavala
Above all, this report closes the investigative chapter of a heartbreaking loss. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was visiting the park for a night of fun and thrill-seeking, just like millions of theme park fans do every year. His death is a tragedy that has left his family, friends, and the theme park community grieving and seeking answers.
Our thoughts remain with all who loved him as they continue to navigate their loss.