A day of family fun at Universal Orlando Resort turned to tragedy on Wednesday when a 38-year-old man fell to his death from a moving rollercoaster.
The incident occurred on the popular Hollyover Rip Ride Rockit attraction around 11:15 AM local time. Orange County Fire Rescue confirmed they responded to an emergency call for a 'traumatic arrest' and pronounced the man dead at the scene.
Horror Unfolds Before Family
Authorities have identified the victim as Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a visitor to the theme park. Witnesses described a scene of panic and confusion as the rollercoaster, which reaches heights of 167 feet and speeds of 65 mph, came to an emergency stop.
"We heard screaming and then the ride just stopped abruptly," one park guest told local media. "People were pointing and crying. It was chaotic."
Investigation Underway
Universal Orlando released a brief statement confirming the incident: "Earlier today a guest passed away in our park. Our thoughts are with their family and we are conducting a full investigation with the support of local authorities."
The Orange County Sheriff's Office has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fall. Key questions remain about how such an incident could occur on a ride with multiple safety restraints.
Ride History and Safety
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit opened in 2009 and has been a popular attraction featuring:
- A vertical lift hill reaching 17 stories high
- Multiple inversions and high-speed turns
- On-board audio system allowing riders to select music
- State-of-the-art lap bar restraint system
Theme park safety experts note that fatal accidents on major rollercoasters are extremely rare in the United States. The last similar incident at a Florida theme park occurred in 2016.
Park Operations Continue
Universal Orlando remained open following the incident, though the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit attraction has been closed indefinitely pending the investigation. Park officials are offering counseling services to guests and employees who witnessed the tragedy.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of ride safety protocols, even at world-renowned theme parks that millions visit safely each year.
