Universal has issued an official statement confirming the Stardust Racers reopening date.
Universal Statement on Stardust Racers Reopening
According to the official statement from Universal, Stardust Racers is reopening on Saturday, October 4, as we previously reported.
The statement reads:
Dear Team Members,
As one Universal Orlando family, we continue to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mr. Rodriguez Zavala’s family and loved ones for their loss. I am very grateful for the professionalism, compassion, and care our team has shown during and since this tragic event took place.As I previously indicated, our comprehensive technical and operational review confirmed the ride systems functioned properly throughout the boarding process, the duration of the ride, and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures throughout.
Our extensive review was conducted working closely with local officials, and the State of Florida observed the testing and reviewed the results. In addition, the ride system manufacturer of record and an independent, third-party roller coaster engineering expert conducted their own on-site testing and validated our findings. I am thankful for their participation throughout this important process.
Safety, as always, is our top priority. To further assist guests in determining whether they can or cannot ride an attraction, we are updating operational procedures and attraction signage to reinforce existing ride warnings and physical eligibility requirements at Stardust Racers and other rides.
This means we are prepared to reopen Stardust Racers at Universal Epic Universe on Saturday afternoon, October 4.
In the days ahead, please continue to take care of one another and know that as we continue to process this heartbreaking event, resources are always available should you need additional support.
I am confident we will continue to deliver extraordinary guest experiences that make our Destination so special. Thank you for everything you do every day.
With care and appreciation,
Karen Irwin
President & Chief Operating Officer
Universal Orlando Resort
Stardust Racers Closure
The Stardust Racers roller coaster has been closed since September 17 after the death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodríguez Zavala, who passed away from “multiple blunt impact injuries” after riding Stardust Racers that same day.
On September 21, Universal issued a statement to Team Members saying they had completed their own internal investigation and found that Stardust Racers “functioned as intended.”
On September 25, another guest sued Universal claiming injury from Stardust Racers; the case was quickly settled.
Zavala’s family had publicly requested that Stardust Racers remain closed until all investigations are complete. The family has retained famous civil rights attorney Ben Crump to represent them, and Orange County officials revealed the investigation into the incident is being carried out under Florida’s manslaughter statute.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Kevin, and his family is kindly asking for support to cover funeral and memorial expenses.
About 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 roller coaster 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.
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