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Stardust Racers Coaster Death Ruled Accidental After Blunt-Force Injuries

The ride remains closed during an active Orange County Sheriff’s investigation with Universal pledging cooperation.

Overview

  • Authorities identified the victim as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers on Sept. 17.
  • The Orange County Medical Examiner reported multiple blunt impact injuries as the cause of death and ruled the manner accidental.
  • Off-duty deputies found Zavala unresponsive at the attraction, and he was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
  • Universal closed Stardust Racers and issued condolences, stating it is cooperating with investigators; no reopening timeline has been given.
  • Some outlets reported an anonymous witness claim of a mid-ride fainting and head strike, a detail not confirmed by officials.