The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has determined that the car accident that killed actor Paul Walker was not caused by mechanical failure.
“Investigators determined the cause of the fatal solo-vehicle collision was unsafe speed for the roadway conditions,” said Commander Mike Parker.
The investigation estimated that Walker’s Porsche Carrera GT was traveling somewhere between 80 and 93 mph when it struck a power pole and several trees before igniting. The speed estimate contradicts a coroner’s report that pointed to a speed of at least 100 mph.
Expert investigators from the California Highway Patrol’s Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team conducted a mechanical inspection of the car’s powertrain, exhaust, throttle, fuel delivery, electrical, steering, suspension and brake systems, along with the tires and wheels, without finding any evidence of pre-existing conditions that would have caused the collision.
“During the examination, it was determined that an aftermarket exhaust system had been installed which would have increased the engine’s horsepower,” Parker noted.
The investigation suggests both Walker and passenger Roger Rodas were wearing seat belts, while toxicology tests found no evidence of alcohol or drugs.
Walker had been filming Fast & Furious 7 when the accident occurred. Universal Pictures is rumored to be utilizing CGI to complete the film in his absence.