Florida roller coaster derailment blamed on excessive speed

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (WTVQ) – Investigators say excessive speed caused a roller coaster to derail at a boardwalk in Daytona Beach, Florida, that injured two people from Knott County.

Two riders fell 34 feet when their car was left dangling from the track June 14.

In a statement Tuesday, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said a preliminary investigation determined that excessive speed caused the Sand Blaster Roller Coaster to derail.

Putnam said subpoenas were issued to the ride operator so his agency can complete its investigation.

The ride has been shut down since the derailment. Putnam said it will remain closed indefinitely.

Nine people were injured, including two who fell to the ground, after the ride’s front car came completely off the tracks.

Investigators say the ride had been shut down by state inspectors twice in the past 18 months because of problems.