Motorcyclist Killed in High Speed Chase in Rancho Mirage

A motorcyclist was killed after leading sheriff's deputies on a pursuit that began in Palm Desert and ended in Rancho Mirage, authorities said today.

Deputies attempted to stop the motorcyclist around 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the area of Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Road on suspicion of a vehicle code violation and driving under the influence, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.

The suspect fled at a high rate of speed as deputies attempted the enforcement stop, and a pursuit was initiated. The chase ended in the area of Country Club Drive and John Sinn Road in Rancho Mirage, where the motorcyclist allegedly drove past a red light and crashed with a vehicle in the intersection.

Deputies and paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

The occupants of the vehicle were uninjured.

The identity of the suspect was withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Anyone with additional information about the crash was encouraged to contact Sgt. Robert Wiggs at 760-836-1600.