A man in his 30s died Wednesday after becoming unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando, park officials said. The unidentified guest was rushed to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. It was not immediately clear what caused the death, and officials noted the man did not fall from the ride. The Orange County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.
Stardust Racers is a dual-launch coaster described as Universal’s most thrilling ride, capable of speeds up to 62 miles per hour and reaching a height of 133 feet. The attraction has been among the park’s most popular experiences, according to local reporting. Epic Universe, a 110-acre, $7 billion development, opened in May after pandemic-related delays and features more than 50 attractions. The new park is Universal’s fourth in the Orlando area and was the first major theme park to debut in the United States in more than 25 years.
The Stardust Racers ride was temporarily closed in the aftermath of the incident; NBC News reported that the ride remained closed as of Thursday morning. Universal officials said they were devastated by the tragedy and extended condolences to the guest’s loved ones.
Officials have stressed that the man did not fall from the ride, and investigators are examining potential contributing factors to determine the cause of death. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office continues to gather witnesses and ride-system information as part of the inquiry. There was no immediate information available about whether any other guests were affected or whether the ride will reopen in the near term.
Epic Universe has attracted wide attention since its May opening, with park officials describing the project as Universal’s largest and most ambitious venture to date. The expansion has added a broad slate of attractions and experiences aimed at broadening Orlando’s theme-park offerings and extending the city’s status as a major tourism hub.
The investigation is ongoing, and local authorities have not released new details about the circumstances surrounding the guest’s death. Universal representatives emphasized their sympathy for the family and said they would cooperate with investigators as the case develops. No determination has been announced about a potential timeline for re-opening Stardust Racers.