What's happened
Two recent deaths at Universal Orlando highlight ongoing safety issues with high-speed rides. A woman died after becoming unresponsive on the Revenge of the Mummy coaster in November 2025, and a man was injured on the Stardust Racers roller coaster in September 2025. Investigations are ongoing.
What's behind the headline?
The recent fatalities at Universal Orlando underscore persistent safety concerns with high-speed rides. The woman's death, caused by a ruptured aneurysm, raises questions about medical screening and ride suitability for older guests. The history of incidents on Revenge of the Mummy suggests that ride safety and maintenance may need review. The timing of these deaths, within months of each other, could influence regulatory scrutiny and industry standards. Universal's response will likely focus on safety audits, but the incidents highlight the inherent risks of thrill rides, especially for vulnerable populations. The industry may face increased pressure to improve safety protocols and transparency, potentially leading to stricter regulations and enhanced rider screening processes.
What the papers say
The Orlando Sentinel reports that the woman died of a ruptured aneurysm without trauma, with her family demanding transparency about safety protocols. The Independent notes the ride has had 21 incidents since 2004, including seizures and fractures, and highlights the recent death as part of a pattern of safety concerns. Both articles emphasize the need for thorough investigation and possible regulatory review, with the Orlando Sentinel stressing the family's call for answers and safety reassessment. Universal Orlando has not yet commented publicly on the incidents, but the reports suggest a growing concern over ride safety and health screening procedures.
How we got here
The Revenge of the Mummy indoor coaster has been operational since 2004, with 21 reported incidents including nausea, seizures, and fractures. The recent death of a 70-year-old woman, who died from a ruptured aneurysm after riding, has prompted renewed scrutiny of ride safety protocols. The Stardust Racers roller coaster, opened in May 2025, also saw a fatality in September 2025, when a man died from blunt impact injuries after becoming unresponsive during the ride.
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