This hits home for me, as the Darien Lake theme park is about 20 minutes or so away.
An Iraq War Veteran, who lost both his legs in the war, fell out of the “Ride Of Steel” Superman rollercoaster and was killed Friday afternoon at Darien Lake Theme Park in Darien, NY.
Sgt. James Hackemer, of Gowanda, NY, was somehow dislodged from his front row seat around 5:30pm Friday.
Authorities say the “Ride Of Steel” was traveling at about 50mph at the time of the accident.
There was no apparent mechanical failure involved, but it was stated Heckemer didn’t have prosthetics and was allowed to ride.
The Dept. Of Labor is investigating.
Darien Lake released the following via their website:
About the “Ride Of Steel” (from Darien Lake website):
One of the tallest coasters east of the Mississippi, climbing approximately 208 feet and reaching speeds in excess of 70 mph. Must be 54″ or taller. Guests who are 76″ and above or with certain body proportions may not be able to ride.
Related: Darien Lake Superman Ride Of Steel Roller Coaster Suffers Another Mishap
