In Orlando, Florida, growing concerns about the safety of the new Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe have arisen following the tragic death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala. His family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, is requesting answers after Zavala suffered blunt force injuries on September 17. All we want is answers regarding my son’s death, stated his mother, Ana Zavala, during a news conference. Reports have surfaced of other individuals suffering serious injuries, including a woman who experienced unconsciousness and neck and spine injuries shortly after the ride's May opening.
Attorney Crump emphasized that the injuries reported by others, including a lawsuit from a central Florida woman claiming severe and lasting injuries, raise questions about the ride's safety measures and operational guidelines. He expressed concerns over the lack of thorough oversight, pointing out that Florida’s largest theme parks are exempt from full state safety inspections. Instead, they self-regulate while reporting any incidents.
After analyzing the circumstances surrounding Zavala's death, a medical examiner ruled it an accident. However, Universal’s internal investigations claimed the ride's systems operated normally at the time. Yet Crump argues that there have been signs of potential design flaws. He has urged anyone who experienced injuries or witnessed incidents on the ride to come forward, stressing the vital need for accountability.
Attorney Crump emphasized that the injuries reported by others, including a lawsuit from a central Florida woman claiming severe and lasting injuries, raise questions about the ride's safety measures and operational guidelines. He expressed concerns over the lack of thorough oversight, pointing out that Florida’s largest theme parks are exempt from full state safety inspections. Instead, they self-regulate while reporting any incidents.
After analyzing the circumstances surrounding Zavala's death, a medical examiner ruled it an accident. However, Universal’s internal investigations claimed the ride's systems operated normally at the time. Yet Crump argues that there have been signs of potential design flaws. He has urged anyone who experienced injuries or witnessed incidents on the ride to come forward, stressing the vital need for accountability.
The ongoing discourse surrounding safety in amusement parks highlights the broader implications for oversight in corporate entertainment. It raises fundamental questions about the responsibility of large corporations in ensuring the safety of their attractions and the wellbeing of their patrons.