Universal Reopens Stardust Racers

Photo courtesy of Unidersal Studios, Orlando

Ride reopens two weeks after man's tragic death.

Universal Orlando has reopened the Stardust Racers roller coaster Saturday afternoon, October 4, 2025. This decision comes just a little over two weeks after the unfortunate incident involving Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who passed away following an accident on the ride. The cause was determined to be multiple blunt force injuries, and his death was officially ruled accidental.

In a memo to Universal employees, President Karen Irwin confirmed that thorough safety inspections, checks, and investigations have been completed. According to her letter, the attraction is cleared for reopening, and the company is also updating its operational procedures and signage. The goal is to make sure guests are fully aware of existing safety warnings and eligibility requirements—not just at Stardust Racers, but across other attractions as well. Irwin reiterated Universal’s commitment to safety and extended continued condolences to Mr. Rodriguez Zavala’s family. The company’s focus is on maintaining safety as the top priority while ensuring guests have all the information they need before choosing to ride.

President Karen Irwin's letter:

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.