A tragic incident at the Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida, has left a man dead after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster. The victim, 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead on September 17. The devastating details of the event were unveiled in a final report released on December 11, shedding light on the harrowing moments that unfolded during the ride. According to the report, Kevin’s girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz-Robles, who was seated beside him, frantically cried for help as the tragedy struck, but her pleas went unnoticed until the ride was near the station.
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The Chief Medical Examiner for Orange and Osceola counties, Joshua Stephany, stated that Kevin’s cause of death was “multiple blunt impact injuries” and was ruled as an accident. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) conducted a thorough investigation and concluded that no criminal acts were involved in the tragic incident. The released report included statements from deputies, theme park staff, and witnesses, providing a detailed account of the events leading to Kevin’s untimely demise. Cruz-Robles disclosed that there were difficulties securing the safety bar around Kevin before the ride commenced, and tragically, he flew forward and suffered multiple head impacts during the initial descent.
Dr. Anna Marshall, a witness at the scene, recounted hearing cries for help and rushed to assist, only to find Kevin unresponsive with severe injuries. Cruz-Robles, visibly distressed and suffering panic attacks, shared crucial information about Kevin’s preexisting spinal injury and medication during an interview conducted at the hospital. Kevin’s parents elaborated on his medical history, revealing his previous surgeries and reliance on a wheelchair, painting a poignant picture of their son’s life and struggles. Despite the distressing nature of the incident, the OCSO confirmed that the theme park employees adhered to safety protocols, and no negligence was found on their part.
In the aftermath of Kevin’s tragic death, his family sought legal counsel and launched an independent investigation to uncover the circumstances leading to the fatal roller coaster ride. A heartfelt message on a GoFundMe page set up for the family remembers Kevin as a compassionate and caring individual, cherished by all who knew him. His presence is described as radiant, leaving a void that can never be filled. This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in amusement parks and the unforeseen risks associated with thrill rides.
The tragedy at Epic Universe has undoubtedly left a mark on all those involved, prompting a reflection on the fragility of life and the need for stringent safety regulations in the entertainment industry. As authorities continue to investigate the sequence of events that led to Kevin’s untimely passing, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The outpouring of support and remembrance for Kevin serves as a tribute to his life and the impact he had on those around him. May his legacy be a reminder of the preciousness of every moment we have and the importance of ensuring the safety of all individuals in recreational settings.