Orlando theme park death ruled accidental after roller coaster ride

The death of a man at a Universal Orlando theme park in September has been ruled an accident, with no criminal charges to be filed, according to a final investigative report.

Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, lost consciousness after riding a roller coaster at Universal's Epic Universe. Surveillance footage showed him appearing well when boarding, but unresponsive when the ride returned.

The medical examiner determined he died from multiple blunt force injuries, including a deep forehead laceration, fractures above the eye socket and nose, skull bleeding, and bruising on his abdomen and arm.

The Florida sheriff's office concluded the incident was an "accidental death," with park staff following standard operating procedures without negligence. Warning signs at the ride entrance listed health conditions, including recent surgery, that should prevent participation.

Zavala's family revealed he was born with spinal muscular atrophy and had undergone multiple surgeries, including for a femur fracture in 2020 and a dislocated hip in 2010, which required him to use a wheelchair. They had long worried about potential accidents.

Through their lawyer, the family announced a confidential settlement with Universal and requested privacy.