A Hispanic man died after losing consciousness after riding the new Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe park, which opened this year.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the visitor, in his 30s, was treated by emergency personnel and transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Roller coaster closed after death
Universal Orlando reported that the attraction will remain closed while the investigation is conducted and that it is cooperating with authorities.
So far, no technical failures have been reported on the roller coaster.
Stardust Racers opened to the public in May and reaches speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles) on a dual track course.
The deceased lost consciousness when getting off the ride and could not be revived.
New roller coaster death investigated
The Orange County Fire and Rescue Department and the Sheriff’s Department reported that the visitor was a Hispanic male in his 30s.
He was later identified as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, according to WESH.
According to the Orange County Medical Examiner, the cause of death was an accident.
Zavala reportedly died of multiple blunt force injuries.
Authorities warn of risks
The Stardust Racers roller coaster opened in May in conjunction with the Epic Universe park.
It is a double train attraction with a nearly one-mile (1.6 kilometers) ride with inversions and a simultaneous launch system in which two trains “race” in parallel.
The authorities reminded visitors that they must comply with the medical and health requirements indicated for this type of attractions.
Especially those with heart conditions or high blood pressure, as the forces and speed can pose a risk to vulnerable people.
Universal Orlando Resort described what happened as a “tragic event” and expressed its condolences to the victim’s family, according to EFE.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
