A 70-year-old woman died after riding the Revenge of the Mummy indoor roller coaster at Universal Orlando in November 2025, as revealed in a newly released state report that highlights ongoing safety concerns in Florida’s theme parks. The incident, which occurred on November 25, 2025, was part of a quarterly report from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services covering October through December 2025, underscoring the self-reporting system used by major parks to document injuries and fatalities.
According to the report, the woman became unresponsive while on the ride and was later pronounced dead at a hospital, though her identity and the exact cause of death were not disclosed. This fatality is one of nine incidents Universal Orlando reported during that three-month period, including cases where guests experienced chest pain, nausea, or other medical symptoms on attractions like Stardust Racers and Yoshi’s Adventure at the new Epic Universe park. The data reflects a broader trend of theme parks grappling with health emergencies amid high visitor volumes.
Universal has not commented on the specifics, with a spokesperson stating that the company does not discuss pending claims, and it remains unclear if legal action has been initiated. The Orlando Police Department has not opened a death investigation, and the Orlando Fire Department has deferred to public records requests for details on the emergency response, leaving gaps in public understanding of the circumstances. This lack of transparency is compounded by Florida’s reporting system, which relies on parks to self-report incidents without requiring updates on patrons’ conditions or independent verification.
The incident adds to a series of safety issues at Universal parks, notably the death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a 32-year-old man who became unresponsive on the Stardust Racers coaster in September 2025. His death, attributed to blunt force injuries related to a congenital spinal condition, resulted in a settlement with his family and temporary ride closures, raising questions about ride intensity and guest health screenings. These cases have spurred calls for enhanced safety protocols and more rigorous oversight in the industry.
Florida’s theme park injury reporting framework, established decades ago, mandates that parks disclose incidents involving medical attention, but critics argue it lacks depth and accountability. Safety advocates emphasize the need for independent audits, improved pre-ride health assessments, and real-time monitoring to prevent future tragedies, especially as parks introduce more thrilling attractions. Balancing innovation with guest well-being remains a persistent challenge for operators like Universal.
In response to the report, industry experts suggest that parks may review operational procedures, including staff training and emergency response plans, to mitigate risks. The incident on Revenge of the Mummy, a popular indoor coaster known for its dark themes and sudden movements, could prompt reassessments of ride design and guest accessibility, particularly for older visitors or those with pre-existing conditions. Universal has historically emphasized safety, but this case may lead to incremental changes in policy or technology.
Looking ahead, the fallout from this incident is likely to influence broader discussions on theme park safety regulations at the state and federal levels. With millions of visitors flocking to Orlando annually, ensuring a safe experience is critical for maintaining public trust and economic vitality. Future reports and potential legislative actions could shape how injuries are documented and addressed, aiming to reduce fatalities while preserving the thrill that draws guests to these iconic destinations.
This summary synthesizes information from reports by WESH and FOX 35 Orlando, both of which covered the state report’s release on January 16, 2026, providing a unified narrative on the event and its implications for theme park safety.
