Riders plunge 34 feet, others hurt in roller coaster derail

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) - Florida officials say a roller coaster passed a state inspection only hours before it derailed and sent two riders plummeting to the ground.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said Friday that the Sand Blaster at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk had been seen Thursday by inspectors from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Putnam's statement says the roller coaster "was found in compliance with state law." It says his agency is investigating the cause, and says "anyone who should be held accountable will be held accountable."

Daytona Beach Fire officials say two riders fell 34 feet (10 meters) to the ground when their car derailed and was left dangling from the track. They were hospitalized along with four other people who had been on the ride Thursday evening.

Officials gave an update on the situation shortly after 10 p.m.