Business
Attorney Ben Crump Urges New State Oversight After Death on Universal’s Stardust Racers
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Civil rights attorney Ben Crump is calling for sweeping reforms to Florida’s theme park safety laws following the tragic death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who died Sept. 17 after riding the new Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe. At a press conference Tuesday, Crump highlighted growing complaints, missed warning signs, and red flags that point to the need for greater state oversight.
Photo by J Willie David, III / Florida National News
Complaints Surface After Fatal Incident
Crump revealed that since Zavala’s death, multiple individuals have come forward with their own troubling experiences on Stardust Racers. One woman said she lost consciousness and suffered neck and spine injuries shortly after the ride opened in May. She later contacted Zavala’s family through a GoFundMe page, detailing her ordeal.
“These are not isolated cases,” Crump said. “We’re hearing from others who faced serious issues on this same roller coaster.”
Family Demands Answers
Through an interpreter, Zavala’s mother, Ana Zavala, made an emotional plea for transparency and accountability.
“All we want is answers regarding my son’s death. We want answers so we can honor him and have peace. It is extremely difficult losing a son, and we do not wish this pain on anyone.” — Ana Zavala
Missed Warning Signs and Red Flags
Crump and his legal team argue that Universal missed clear red flags that Stardust Racers was unsafe. They are seeking access to surveillance footage from the night of Zavala’s death and conducting an independent inspection of the ride’s design and restraints.
“With respect to restraints, we’re going to look at everything,” said Paul Grinke, Managing Attorney at Ben Crump Law. “Should there have been more restraints? Different restraints? Special restraints for someone in Kevin’s condition? We will examine every detail from top to bottom.”
Photo by J Willie David, III / Florida National News
Call for New State Oversight
Florida National News pressed Crump on whether state law should be expanded to cover government investigations at large theme parks. Crump agreed, stressing that major corporations like Universal should no longer self-report and self-police ride-related injuries.
“We are calling for greater government oversight,” Grinke said. “Currently, Universal and other major parks self-report incidents. That is not enough. We are in open communication with state and local officials to push for legislative change.”
Universal’s Limited Reporting Under Scrutiny
Records from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services show Universal has only self-reported two incidents this year on Stardust Racers: a 63-year-old man who experienced dizziness and altered consciousness, and a 47-year-old woman with vision impairment and numbness. Both were attributed to “pre-existing conditions.”
Crump argues that this limited reporting shows the urgent need for mandatory state oversight, transparency, and public accountability.
“This is not just about one family’s tragedy,” Crump said. “It’s about protecting every family who visits Florida’s theme parks.”
Key Facts on Stardust Racers Investigation
Victim: Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died Sept. 17 of blunt force injuries.
Ride: Stardust Racers roller coaster, Epic Universe, opened May 2025.
Complaints: At least two other riders have reported serious injuries or symptoms.
Official Reports: Only two incidents self-reported by Universal this year.
Proposed Reform: Mandatory state oversight of large theme park, like Universal Orlando’s Eric Universe.
_________________________________________________________________________
J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Florida National News is on site all week covering the 2026 PGA Show as it takes over the Orange County Convention Center, transforming Orlando into the global epicenter of the golf industry.
The annual event draws thousands of industry professionals, athletes, media, and golf enthusiasts from around the world to preview the latest innovations shaping the future of the sport.
Global Golf Industry Converges in Orlando
The PGA Show brings together exhibitors and attendees from across the globe, showcasing cutting-edge golf equipment, apparel, technology, and services. From club manufacturers and gear designers to course operators and teaching professionals, the show serves as a central meeting point for every sector of the golf world.
Attetion, Technology, and Interactive Experiences
This year’s PGA Show features immersive activations, including state-of-the-art golf simulators, interactive training tools, and expanded indoor and outdoor driving range experiences. Technology continues to play a major role, with advancements in swing analytics, performance tracking, and course management on full display.
The show floor also highlights sustainability efforts and innovations aimed at growing the game for future generations.
Florida National News Provides Front-Row Coverage
Florida National News will deliver comprehensive coverage throughout the week, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access, exhibitor highlights, and firsthand looks at the products and experiences defining the next era of golf.
Readers can follow along for daily updates, photos, and feature stories straight from the heart of the PGA Show
________________________________________________________
– Todd Grasley and J Willie David, III contribute to this report.
News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Hispanic Chamber and Prospera Honor Business and Community Leaders at 28th Don Quijote Awards Gala
