A shocking video has emerged showing a guest on Universal’s Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Islands of Adventure pretending to be unresponsive during the ride. The footage, first reported by Orlando Theme Park Zone, captures the guest slumped over in the restraint of his seat, allowing his body to go limp as the roller coaster navigates its high-speed twists and turns. The train shakes him side to side as it accelerates along the track, creating a disturbing spectacle for fellow riders.While the stunt may have seemed like a harmless prank to some, the timing is chilling. Only months after the VelociCoaster video surfaced, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala tragically died while riding Stardust Racers at Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe park. Zavala, 32, was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead, leading to the ride’s closure for a three-week investigation.Jurassic World VelociCoaster Video Sparks ConcernsCredit: UniversalThe VelociCoaster incident highlights a growing concern among theme park operators: guests simulating medical emergencies or otherwise compromising ride safety. Universal’s VelociCoaster is known for its intense launches and rapid inversions, which are designed to push riders to the edge of physical thrill. Pretending to be unresponsive not only endangers the individual but also places other guests and staff at risk.The video demonstrates how even small lapses in guest judgment can be amplified on high-speed attractions. While no injuries were reported in this particular incident, it underscores the challenge parks face in maintaining strict safety standards, especially on thrill rides with complex restraint systems.Stardust Racers Tragedy at Epic UniverseThe video comes in the shadow of the Stardust Racers tragedy, where Kevin Rodriguez Zavala lost his life on September 17, 2025. According to the Orange County medical examiner, Zavala’s death was caused by multiple blunt impact injuries sustained during the ride. The incident prompted a full closure and review of the attraction, including evaluations by ride manufacturers, independent engineering experts, and state safety officials.Despite confirmation that the ride systems were functioning correctly, public outcry and legal scrutiny have intensified. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Zavala’s family, called the reopening “a grave risk to public safety,” noting that other riders had reported similar injuries. Critics argue that while technical malfunctions may not have been a factor, ride design and safety policies must be reevaluated to prevent future incidents.Universal Reopens Stardust Racers With New PoliciesAfter three weeks, Epic Universe reopened Stardust Racers, introducing new rules aimed at improving safety and deterring risky guest behavior. Updated operational procedures and clearer safety signage have been implemented, particularly for guests with disabilities or limited mobility.One major change requires guests who use mobility devices, including wheelchairs, to walk independently to access the ride. Previously, minimal assistance from companions or team members was allowed. Universal states that these adjustments are meant to minimize risk and ensure riders are fully capable of experiencing the attraction safely.However, the revised policies have drawn criticism from disability advocates who argue that the measures may unfairly restrict access for some visitors. Accessibility experts note that theme parks often provide adaptive equipment, transfer devices, or specialized seating to safely accommodate guests without outright exclusion. The new Stardust Racers policy, they argue, represents a significant shift in how Universal balances thrill with inclusion.Industry-Wide ImplicationsCredit: UniversalThe VelociCoaster prank and the Stardust Racers tragedy highlight broader industry challenges regarding guest behavior, safety enforcement, and accessibility. High-intensity roller coasters are inherently risky, but operators must also account for unpredictable human behavior. Pretending to be unresponsive or ignoring ride restrictions can have fatal consequences, as Zavala’s death tragically demonstrates.For Universal, this has meant a renewed focus on proactive safety measures, including:Strengthened ride signage and warningsUpdated restrictions for guests with mobility limitationsEnhanced staff monitoring and emergency response protocolsAt the same time, critics warn that policies should not disproportionately limit access for guests with disabilities. Balancing safety, inclusivity, and thrill remains one of the most difficult challenges for major theme parks worldwide.Guest Behavior Under ScrutinyIncidents like the VelociCoaster video have sparked a debate over personal responsibility versus park liability. While Universal can enforce rules and maintain mechanical safety, the behavior of individual guests is less controllable. Pranks or risky stunts not only endanger the individual but can disrupt ride operations and potentially harm others.Legal experts emphasize that even if a guest knowingly takes risks, the consequences can be severe. As personal injury attorney Luis Toribio notes, “In these cases, notice or advice to the rider is important. The question is whether a reasonable person would have chosen to ride given the warnings and requirements in place at the time of the incident.”Universal’s theme parks, including Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe, continue to push the boundaries of thrill and innovation. The VelociCoaster and Stardust Racers incidents serve as sobering reminders that safety protocols and guest behavior are inseparable components of a responsible amusement park experience.While the reopening of Stardust Racers demonstrates Universal’s commitment to safety and operational review, the response to these events will likely influence how parks approach ride access, guest policies, and emergency procedures moving forward. For fans, the message is clear: rides are thrilling because they are carefully engineered—but the responsibility to stay safe and follow park rules is shared by everyone who enters the gates.Only time will tell whether Universal’s new policies successfully prevent future tragedies, or if stricter measures and further engineering adaptations will be necessary. In the meantime, guests are reminded that thrill and safety must go hand in hand—because the consequences of a prank or lapse in judgment can be far more serious than anyone anticipates.The post Repulsive Theme Park News: Man Grossly Fakes Death on Universal Coaster appeared first on Inside the Magic.