Paul Walker Car Crash Was Caused by Speed, Police Investigation Reveals

Actor passed away late last year

By Holly Passalaqua, Lily Harrison Mar 25, 2014 11:25 PMTags
Paul Walker Mark Renders/Getty Images

A new police report has revealed the cause of the fatal car crash that killed Paul Walker and his friend Roger Rodas.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's traffic collision experts have determined that the speed of the car, which was said to be between 80 and 93 mph, was the reason for the accident.

"Investigators determined the cause of the fatal solo-vehicle collision was unsafe speed for the roadway conditions," Commander Mike Parker explained.

"During the examination, it was determined that an aftermarket exhaust system had been installed which would have increased the engine's horsepower."

The California Highway Patrol's Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team conducted an exhaustive examination on the 2005 Porsche Carrera GT involved in the crash, including its history, safety recalls and repair records.

The Los Angeles Sheriff Department's investigators also consulted with experts from the Porsche and Michelin Corporations as part of their investigation.

There was also evidence that both Walker and Rodas wore seatbelts and that the airbags deployed for both the driver and the passenger.

"Toxicology tests on both men revealed that neither had used any alcohol or drugs," Parker added.

In December, the Los Angeles County coroner's office determined the official causes of death for the Walker and Rodas.

After conducting autopsies on both men, the office confirmed that Rodas, 38, died of multiple traumatic injuries. Walker, 40, died of the combined effects of traumatic and thermal injuries.

The Fast and the Furious star and his longtime friend passed away on Nov. 30, 2013, shortly after the actor's charity event in Valencia, Calif.

The speed limit for the street that Rodas was driving on was 45 mph.