Man Dies After Riding Roller Coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando [WATCH]

A man in his 30s died Wednesday after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida, as reported by the New York Post.

According to a Universal spokesperson, the man became unresponsive while on the attraction. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Aerial Video Shows Forensic Team Investigating Death of Guest After Riding Stardust Racers at Universal’s Epic Universe (@UniversalORL) https://t.co/XosTBOcyZN pic.twitter.com/pU83kyw7jp

— Orlando Theme Park Zone (@OTPZ_TP) September 18, 2025

Officials said the man did not fall from the ride, but the exact cause of death has not yet been determined.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it has opened an investigation into the incident. Universal issued a statement expressing condolences to the man’s family.

“We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones,” the statement read.

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The Stardust Racers roller coaster remained closed Thursday as park officials and law enforcement continued reviewing the circumstances of the man’s death.

The attraction, described as one of Epic Universe’s most popular rides, features dual-launch technology and propels riders up to 62 miles per hour on a track reaching 133 feet high.

BREAKING: A man in his 30s died Wednesday after riding Stardust Racers at Universal’s new Epic Universe.

Universal statement:

“We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. The attraction remains closed.”

Cause of death is… pic.twitter.com/4ouSEp50g8

— Positively Osceola (@positiveosceola) September 18, 2025

Epic Universe, a 110-acre park, officially opened in May following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With a reported $7 billion investment, it is Universal’s largest expansion in Orlando to date and marks the first major theme park to debut in the United States in more than 25 years.

The park offers more than 50 attractions and is Universal’s fourth theme park in Orlando, joining Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

As of Thursday, authorities had not released additional details about the deceased guest’s identity or whether any underlying health conditions may have contributed to the incident.

Investigators said more information would be made available once the medical examiner completes an autopsy.

The incident has drawn national attention due to the timing of Epic Universe’s opening and the high-profile nature of its new attractions. The Stardust Racers coaster was widely promoted ahead of the park’s debut as a centerpiece thrill ride.

Universal has not said when the ride might reopen, noting only that it will remain closed during the ongoing investigation.

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