Previous coverage: Ben Crump calls for more government oversight after rollercoaster death
The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who tragically passed away after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe, has called for the ride’s closure due to recent reports of restraint issues.
This demand arose after another park visitor claimed that the restraint on Universal’s Stardust Racers failed to lock properly, just hours after the attraction was reopened.
Evidence from witnesses and the documentation related to Kevin’s incident reveal that his safety bar needed to be forcibly locked after several attempts were made by a ride operator at Universal.
Universal assured the public that prior to the ride’s reopening, it was subjected to extensive inspections by the park’s own team, the ride manufacturer, state authorities, and an independent engineer.
Despite these assurances, Attorney Ben Crump, representing Kevin’s family, announced that the malfunction reoccurred shortly after the ride resumed operations.
The parents of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala released the following statement:
Kevin’s family expressed their frustration, highlighting, “Universal declared the ride safe, yet reports show a repeat of the issue my son encountered. This suggests nothing has been rectified. They reopened the roller coaster without providing us with answers, which is dangerous. Every rider should return home safely. Until the restraint system’s safety is confirmed and the truth about Kevin’s death is disclosed, this ride should remain closed. Universal is accountable for Kevin’s tragedy unless they take action by shutting down Stardust Racers until we have clarity.”
