The family of the late Kevin Rodríguez Zavala, the guest who passed away shortly after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe, has now retained famous attorney Ben Crump to represent them.
Ben Crump
According to a new report from local new station WFTV 9, the family of Kevin Rodríguez Zavala has hired lawyer Ben Crump. Crump, who is known for his involvement in civil rights and personal injury cases, is famous for representing the families of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. Crump also represented the family of 14-year-old Tyre Sampson, who passed away after riding an attraction at ICON Park in 2022.
According to the article, Zavala’s family is “requesting access to maintenance logs, inspection records, ride data, and video footage related to the incident, hoping this information will clarify what happened to Zavala.”
The family has also now instructed all media inquiries to go through Ben Crump Law’s office.
Crump said in a statement,
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.
This news comes just shortly after it was revealed that Orange County officials are now investigating the death under Florida’s manslaughter statute.
Universal also sent a message to Team Members on September 21, claiming their internal investigation has found that so far, Stardust Racers at Epic Universe functioned as intended, and the ride system was not the cause of the tragic accident.
Stardust Racers
Stardust Racers is a dual launched coaster manufactured by Mack Rides. Both sides have 5,000 feet of track and a maximum height of 133 feet. It reaches 62 mph. The height requirement is 48 inches.
After rumors that trim brakes were added to the rollercoaster during testing, Universal began warning guests that their shoes must be worn at all times. Stardust Racers is also adding modified seats to accommodate larger guests.
GoFundMe
A GoFundMe has been set up for Kevin, and his family is kindly asking for support to cover funeral and memorial expenses. His family says,
Kevin was truly one of a kind. He had an old soul—wise beyond his years—with a heart full of compassion, love, and understanding. 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.
While the incident is still under investigation, Stardust Racers has remained closed since the night of September 17.
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