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Sheriff Closes Epic Universe Coaster Death Probe, Rules It Accidental

The family pursues an independent review after witness accounts in the final report detailed traumatic injuries.

Overview

  • The Orange County Sheriff’s Office released its final incident report on Dec. 11, concluding no criminal acts occurred in Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s Sept. 17 death.
  • The medical examiner found multiple blunt impact injuries and ruled the manner of death accidental.
  • Zavala’s girlfriend told investigators employees made multiple attempts to secure the lap bar and said he struck his head repeatedly after the first drop.
  • A doctor described severe facial trauma and a femur broken in half, and first responders reported it took about 10 minutes to release the lap bar.
  • Universal and Florida regulators said the ride system functioned as intended, and the coaster reopened Oct. 4 with updated access guidance for some guests.