ORLANDO, Fla. – Twin brothers from Tennessee filed lawsuits Friday against Universal Studios, alleging they were injured when a Harry Potter‑themed ride at Epic Universe malfunctioned on Christmas Day last year, according to court records and a news release from law firm Morgan & Morgan.
The 45‑year‑old brothers, Derrick and Errick Burroughs, were visiting the park with family members on Dec. 25, 2025, when they boarded Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.
According to the lawsuits — one filed on behalf of each brother — the ride stopped abruptly due to a malfunction, throwing them around in their seats and causing significant back and neck injuries.
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The suit claims the company failed to maintain the ride in a reasonably safe condition and failed to warn guests about dangerous conditions it “knew or should have known” about.
In a statement, Morgan & Morgan founder John Morgan and attorney John V. Scatuorchio said the lawsuits aim to hold Universal accountable.
“The most important job of a theme park is to keep its guests safe. Instead, Universal allegedly operated a ride that had been plagued by repeated malfunctions, glitches and hard stops since it opened. Our clients continue to seek treatment for their injuries, which are impacting their everyday lives. They have filed these lawsuits to hold Universal accountable for a safety incident we allege was entirely preventable,” the statement said.
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According to court records, both brothers suffered permanent bodily injury, pain and suffering, disability, medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity and loss of enjoyment of life. The complaint says these losses are permanent or continuing and will affect him in the future.
Each suit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 and demands a jury trial.