The boardwalk park where the ride is located was closed out of respect for the victims and their families, park officials said. The Wild Wonder, which opened July 1, was inspected once before opening and once since by the state, according to E.J. Miranda, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Community Affairs, which regulates New Jersey amusement rides. Its inaugural runs were attended by Gov. Christie Whitman, who pressed a button to start the ride, but balked at trying it herself. She said she was afraid of roller coasters. Miranda said the ride, a two-story roller coaster with cars designed to look like animals, would remain closed until investigators determine what caused the accident.
Investigators remain at the scene trying to determine what caused the accident.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Two people were killed after a roller coaster malfunctioned. ABC News Internet Ventures. Click here for Terms of Use and Privacy Policy applicable to this site.