Universal Just Settled with the Family After That Epic Universe Tragedy—And the Details Are Confidential

The news we’ve been waiting for just dropped—and it raises more questions than it answers.

According to an announcement made Saturday by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, the family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala has reached an “amicable resolution” with Universal Orlando Resort following the 32-year-old’s death on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe. The Orlando Sentinel reported that terms of the settlement remain confidential—meaning we don’t know if there was a payout or how much.

“The family is grateful for the community’s support and asks for privacy at this time,” Crump’s statement said.

What Happened on September 17

For those who haven’t been following this story, here’s what we know: Zavala, a Kissimmee resident who had a spinal condition since birth and used a wheelchair, was riding Stardust Racers—one of Epic Universe’s headline attractions—when tragedy struck.

During the ride, which reaches speeds of 62 mph and climbs to 133 feet, Zavala was thrown forward. His head repeatedly slammed into the seat in front of him. When the ride ended, he was unconscious, covered in blood, and had a broken leg. He was rushed to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

The ride uses only a lap belt for restraint—no over-the-shoulder harness.

The Investigation

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office ruled Zavala’s death accidental. Universal’s internal review concluded that the ride’s systems “functioned as intended,” all equipment remained intact, and employees followed correct procedures.

But Crump disagreed with those findings. On September 30, he stated publicly: “We believe there is something wrong with the design of this ride.”

Despite those concerns, Stardust Racers reopened on October 4 with updated safety procedures and signage. Universal has maintained that the attraction operated as designed.

What This Settlement Means

Here’s what makes this settlement announcement so significant: it happened just three months after Zavala’s death. That’s remarkably fast for a case of this magnitude.

The confidentiality clause means we’ll likely never know whether Universal accepted any responsibility, whether the family received compensation, or if any changes to the ride were part of the agreement. All we know is that both parties have agreed to move forward—and stay silent about the details.

For context, this wasn’t the only Stardust Racers lawsuit. Back in September, another guest settled a separate injury claim just days after filing—also under confidential terms.

The Bigger Picture

Epic Universe opened in May 2025 to massive fanfare, with Stardust Racers positioned as one of its must-ride attractions. The dual-launch racing coaster is a technological marvel—two tracks, head-to-head competition, intense speed.

But now, less than a year after opening, the ride has been at the center of two settlements and a death investigation.

We’re left wondering: Are the updated safety procedures enough? Should guests with pre-existing conditions be more clearly warned? And perhaps most importantly—could this tragedy have been prevented?

Universal hasn’t issued any additional statements beyond confirming the settlement. The Zavala family, understandably, is asking for privacy as they grieve.

For now, Stardust Racers continues to operate at Epic Universe. Whether this settlement will bring any meaningful changes to the attraction—or closure to the family—remains to be seen.