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Paul Walker’s Death Not Caused by Drag Racing, Investigation Focusing on Speed

Paul Walker
Investigators have found no evidence that a second car or drag racing was involved in the crash that led to Paul Walker's death on Nov. 30

Contrary to earlier reports, drag racing was not a factor in the fiery car crash that killed Paul Walker and Roger Rodas on Saturday, Nov. 30. Police have found no evidence that a second car was involved in the fatal accident, law enforcement officials reported two days after the tragedy. Paul Walker and other stars we lost in 2013.

Investigators "have received eyewitness statements that the car involved was traveling alone at a high rate of speed," the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said in a statement on Monday, Dec. 2. "No eyewitness has contacted the [department] to say there was a second vehicle."

Related: PHOTOS: Paul Walker's life, in pictures

L.A. County Sheriff Sgt. Richard Cohen previously told CNN that officials had received a phone tip suggesting another car was at the scene. But investigators are now reportedly focused on speed as a possible factor in the crash.

According to NBC News sources, the Porsche Carrera GT in which Walker was riding was traveling at approximately 40 to 45 mph when it came to a bend in the road, where the speed limit drops to 15 mph. Rodas is believed to have been driving at the time.

Related: PHOTOS: Stars we've lost in 2013

Autopsies on the victims are scheduled to be completed on Tuesday, Dec. 3, TMZ reports. The coroner hopes to make positive IDs on both bodies.

Fast & Furious star Walker, 40 at the time of his death, is survived by his 15-year-old daughter, Meadow; his father, Paul Walker III; his mother, Cheryl Walker; his brothers Cody and Caleb; and his sister, Ashley.

Related: PHOTOS: Stars gone too soon

"Paul Walker's family appreciates the outpouring of love and goodwill from his many fans and friends," they said in a statement on Dec. 2. "They have asked, in lieu of flowers or other gifts, that donations please be made to Paul's charity Reach Out Worldwide (ROWW). Donations can easily be made through their website."

"It's comforting for them to know that the son, brother, and father they love so much is equally adored, respected, and appreciated by so many," the statement continued. "Paul founded the organization with the genuine desire to help others, and it's important to his family to keep his memory alive through ROWW."

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