New details emerge about man who died following 'tragic event' on rollercoaster at Orlando's Universal theme park
Niamh Shackleton
Featured Image Credit: GoFundMe
More details have come to light about a man who tragically lost his life on a rollercoaster in Universal's Epic Universe Theme Park.
Last week, it was reported that a man had died at Universal Epic Universe while riding the theme park's Stardust Racers on September 17.
The park, which only opened its doors in May, went on to express its condolences to the man's family.
It said in a statement: "Universal is cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe on Wednesday night.
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"The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died. We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones."
Little information was revealed at the time, but the man who died has since been named as 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala.
Kevin was found to be unconscious after riding the rollercoaster and was rushed to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
A medical examiner said he died as a result of 'multiple blunt impact injuries'.
A police investigation into the tragic ordeal is ongoing, but initial findings by the park have suggested that the ride was working as it should have been.
Universal Orlando Resort President and COO Karen Irwin penned in a letter to colleagues, per PEOPLE: "Our internal findings to date confirm that the ride systems functioned as intended, equipment was intact at the ride's start, throughout the duration of the ride and upon the ride vehicle's return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures."
Kevin's family have set up a GoFundMe page in the wake of his sudden passing to raise money for his funeral and memorial.
The page describes him as 'an old soul—wise beyond his years—with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding'.
It continues: "He was the kind of person who always made time to listen, offer thoughtful advice, and lift others up, even when he was facing challenges of his own. Despite the restrictions and obstacles he encountered throughout his life, Kevin met them all with grace, strength, and an unwavering spirit. He overcame so much, and he did so with quiet resilience and humility."
At the time of writing, almost $27,000 has been raised, surpassing its initial target of $8,000.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].