Ride of Steel stays closed for rest of season

By Eileen Buckley

Buffalo, NY – The Ride of Steel roller coaster at Darien Lake Theme Park will stay closed for the remainder of the 2011 season.

Darien Lake made the announcement in a news released. It cites that due to repairs requiring "customized parts", the roller coaster will be down for the rest of the season.

Late last week the ride closed after a chain broke with 32 passengers onboard.

"While we regret to inform our guests that the roller coaster will be down for the remainder of the season, we still have a large variety of rides and attractions for all ages to enjoy", said Christopher Thorpe, general manager of the park.

But last month Iraqi war vet James Hackemer, a double amputee, fell to his death from the ride. The Department of Labor's investigation found his death was the result of "operator error".

Darien Lake remains open through September 5th, Labor Day and weekends through October 9th.