Stardust Racers Set to Reopen at Epic Universe on October 4
Stardust Racers will reopen at Epic Universe tomorrow afternoon, October 4, nearly three weeks after a tragic incident claimed the life of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. Testing by Universal, Mack Rides (the coaster’s manufacturer), and an independent, third-party engineering expert confirmed that the roller coaster was operating properly at the time of the accident.
In an email to Team Members, Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, confirmed that those tests showed the ride’s systems “functioned properly throughout the boarding process, the duration of the ride, and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station.” She also noted that operations will be updated, with revised “operational procedures and attraction signage to reinforce existing ride warnings and physical eligibility requirements.” Below is the full email she sent to Team Members earlier today:
“Dear Team Members,
As one Universal Orlando family, we continue to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mr. Rodriguez Zavala’s family and loved ones for their loss. I am very grateful for the professionalism, compassion, and care our team has shown during and since this tragic event took place.
“As I previously indicated, our comprehensive technical and operational review confirmed the ride systems functioned properly throughout the boarding process, the duration of the ride, and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures throughout. Our extensive review was conducted working closely with local officials, and the State of Florida observed the testing and reviewed the results.
“In addition, the ride system manufacturer of record and an independent, third-party roller coaster engineering expert conducted their own on-site testing and validated our findings. I am thankful for their participation throughout this important process. Safety, as always, is our top priority. To further assist guests in determining whether they can or cannot ride an attraction, we are updating operational procedures and attraction signage to reinforce existing ride warnings and physical eligibility requirements at Stardust Racers and other rides.
“This means we are prepared to reopen Stardust Racers at Universal Epic Universe on Saturday afternoon, October 4. In the days ahead, please continue to take care of one another and know that as we continue to process this heartbreaking event, resources always available should you need additional support.
“I am confident we will continue to deliver extraordinary guest experiences that make our Destination so special. Thank you for everything you do every day.”
Zavala’s family has retained Ben Crump, a civil rights and personal injury attorney. Earlier this week, Crump said that witnesses and other victims have come forward since Zavalas’ death. According to medical examiners, Zavala died of “multiple blunt impact injuries.” He was a wheelchair user who had a pre-existing spinal cord condition.
While investigations show Stardust Racers operated as intended, the ride’s reopening won’t end ongoing scrutiny.
