Ben Crump Investigates: Seeking Justice for Epic Universe Tragedy
The recent tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man who died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park, has sparked a wave of concern and calls for a thorough investigation. Nationally renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump has been retained by the family to seek justice and answers surrounding the circumstances of Zavala’s death. This incident underscores the inherent risks present in amusement parks and construction sites, where accidents can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. In 2023 alone, Florida recorded 92 fatalities in the construction sector, highlighting the dangers present in the state’s booming construction industry.
The Incident at Epic Universe
On September 17, 2025, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala rode the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe. After the ride, he was found unresponsive and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy revealed that Zavala died from “multiple blunt impact injuries,” and his death was ruled an accident.
The Stardust Racers is a dual-launch roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 62 mph and climbs to a height of 133 feet. The ride features 5,000 feet of track with unique maneuvers, including a “celestial spin” where riders race along an inverted crisscross. Since its opening in May 2025, the ride had been a popular attraction at the park.
Ben Crump’s Involvement
Following Zavala’s death, his family retained Ben Crump, a civil rights and personal injury attorney known for his involvement in high-profile cases. Crump has called for full transparency in the investigation, seeking the release of video footage, ride data, maintenance logs, and inspection records.
In a statement, Crump said, “This tragic loss demands a thorough investigation and full transparency. A man died after boarding a ride that should have been safe. We will hold all responsible parties to account and fight to ensure Kevin’s family receives the answers and justice they deserve.”
Crump’s involvement highlights the family’s determination to uncover the truth behind Zavala’s death and ensure that measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Crump has a long history of representing clients in personal injury, labor, and employment cases.
Investigation and Findings
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident, exploring the possibility of negligence. Universal Orlando Resort President and COO Karen Irwin stated that internal findings confirm the ride “functioned as intended” and that all equipment was intact before, during, and after the ride.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is also investigating the incident. The department’s initial findings align with Universal’s, but the investigation is ongoing. The Stardust Racers roller coaster has been closed since the incident, and it remains unclear when it will reopen.
An incident report revealed that Zavala had a pre-existing spinal injury, though it is unclear whether that contributed to the accident. Universal Orlando’s safety guidelines state that Stardust Racers is “not for guests with back, neck, or similar physical conditions.”
Construction Accidents and Injuries in Florida
Construction sites are inherently dangerous environments, and accidents can result in severe injuries or fatalities. In Florida, the construction industry has been booming in recent years, leading to a rise in workplace accidents.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 76 fatal work injuries in the private construction industry in Florida in 2021, accounting for 24% of all fatal work injuries in the state. The leading causes of construction deaths in Florida include falls, electrocutions, being struck by collapsing or falling material, and getting caught in or between objects.
In addition to fatalities, thousands of construction workers suffer non-fatal injuries each year. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries requiring long-term medical treatment.
Legal Options for Injured Workers
Workers injured on construction sites in Florida have several legal options available to them. They may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can provide coverage for medical expenses and lost wages.
In some cases, injured workers may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against negligent third parties, such as contractors, subcontractors, or equipment manufacturers. A successful personal injury lawsuit can provide compensation for pain and suffering, as well as other damages.
It is important for injured construction workers to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney to determine the best course of action. An attorney can help workers understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Safety Regulations and Prevention
To protect construction workers from injuries and fatalities, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established numerous safety regulations. These regulations cover topics such as fall protection, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, and hazard communication.
Employers are responsible for complying with OSHA regulations and providing a safe working environment for their employees. They are required to conduct regular inspections, provide training for workers on safety procedures, and maintain proper documentation to show compliance with OSHA standards.
Despite these regulations, construction accidents continue to occur at a high rate. It is essential for workers to be aware of their rights and to report any safety violations to their employer or OSHA.
Seeking Legal Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident or an amusement park incident, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Many law firms offer free consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions. During a consultation, you can learn about the legal process and the potential value of your claim.
The Importance of Transparency and Accountability
The tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the amusement park industry. It is essential for amusement park operators to prioritize safety and to conduct thorough investigations when accidents occur.
Families of injured or deceased individuals deserve answers and justice. By holding responsible parties accountable, we can help prevent future tragedies and ensure that amusement parks are safe for everyone.