A guest at Universal’s brand new Epic Universe amusement park died Wednesday after riding a roller coaster, park officials said.
The unidentified man, who was in his 30s, became unresponsive while riding the Stardust Racers attraction at the Orlando park, a Universal spokesperson told NBC News.
The man was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The man became unresponsive on the Stardust Racers roller coaster on Wednesday. Bloomberg via Getty ImagesIt was not immediately clear how the man died, but he did not fall from the ride, officials said.
The incident is under investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
“We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones,” the Universal spokesperson said.
Stardust Racers, one of the park’s most popular rides, remained closed as of Thursday morning, according to NBC.
Epic Universe opened in Orlando in May 2025. TNSThe dual-launch coaster speeds riders along the track at speeds up to 62 miles per hour and reaches a height of 133 feet. It is described as Universal’s most thrilling roller coaster experience, according to WKMG.
The 110-acre, $7 billion Epic Universe finally opened in May after it was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Epic, which features more than 50 attractions, is Universal’s fourth Orlando park, including Universal Studios, and was the first major theme park to open in the US in more than 25 years.
