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ORLANDO, Fla. – The Stardust Racers roller coaster at Epic Universe is set to reopen on Saturday, about two weeks after the death of a guest who rode it in September, according to a letter sent to staff by Universal Orlando’s president.
The family’s legal team, which includes attorneys Ben Crump and Natalie Jackson, have said they would demand autopsy results, footage from the ride and more as it conducts an independent investigation. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is also investigating Zavala’s death.
“The family is asking for two things,” Jackson said last week. “They’re asking for a full and transparent investigation into how this happened, and they are asking for the Stardust Racer ride to remain shut down until all investigations are complete and they fully understand what was involved, and what preventative methods are being taken to prevent this from ever happening again to anybody else’s child.”
[VIDEO: Universal Orlando Resort president says Stardust Racers at Epic Universe functioned ‘as intended’ before guest’s death]
In a new internal letter released Friday, Irwin extended her condolences to Rodriguez Zavala’s loved ones and announced that Stardust Racers would reopen Saturday afternoon, Oct. 4.
“As I previously indicated, our comprehensive technical and operational review confirmed the ride systems functioned properly throughout the boarding process, the duration of the ride, and upon the ride vehicle’s return to the station, and our Team Members followed procedures throughout,” Irwin wrote. “Our extensive review was conducted working closely with local officials, and the State of Florida observed the testing and reviewed the results. In addition, the ride system manufacturer of record and an independent, third-party roller coaster engineering expert conducted their own on-site testing and validated our findings. I am thankful for their participation throughout this important process.”
News 6 has reached back out to Jackson and is awaiting a response.
Read Irwin’s latest letter below:
This is a developing story. Check back here for updates.
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