The medical examiner has issued a report regarding the death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala.
On September 17, Kevin and his girlfriend visited Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, and took a ride on the park’s Stardust Racers. However, when the ride returned to the launch track, Kevin was found unconscious.
Efforts were made by Universal Orlando Health Services and the Orange County Fire Rescue Department to revive the 32-year-old through CPR, after which he was transported to a hospital. Unfortunately, he was later pronounced dead.
Following Kevin’s passing, the park released a statement: “Universal is cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe on Wednesday night.
“The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died. We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones.”
The park further stated, “We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”
The ride was reopened on Saturday, October 4.
Kevin’s family filed a lawsuit against the park after his unfortunate death and sought the expertise of attorney Ben Crump.
Nearly two months after Kevin’s death, the medical examiner’s report indicated that he died from multiple blunt-force injuries, which included extensive bruising, a broken nose, internal bleeding, and a fractured femur, as reported by Fox 35 Orlando.
Witnesses, including a doctor, noted that Kevin suffered a thigh bone fracture that was ‘completely broken in half’.
Investigations revealed that the ride operated correctly, though it took ‘three or four’ attempts to secure Kevin’s lap bar before dispatch.
No foul play is suspected in his death, and the sheriff’s office confirmed that nothing criminal occurred.
The report also acknowledged Kevin’s preexisting health concerns, which included a history of spinal injuries and previous surgeries.
Following the report’s release, Kevin’s family reportedly reached an agreement with Universal.
Personal injury attorney Crump issued a statement on behalf of the family: “The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala and Universal have reached an amicable resolution in this matter. The terms are confidential.
“The family is grateful for the community’s support and asks for privacy at this time.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell at (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].