A San Jacinto man was fatally injured in an off-highway vehicle crash Saturday (January 29) near the King of the Hammers area. According to a CHP press release, on January 29, shortly before 3 p.m., Christian Karnes, 27 of San Jacinto, was driving a black and red 2022 Polaris Razor westbound up a steep sand dune with a passenger, identified as Maribel Gonzalez, 27 also of San Jacinto. Karnes turned the Polaris to begin descending the sand dune when Polaris began to roll. Karnes and Gonzalez were not wearing the installed 5-point harnesses or properly wearing their helmets and were ejected during the rollover.
Christian Karnes sustained fatal injuries. Maribel Gonzalez sustained suspected minor injuries and declined medical transport. Alcohol or drugs do not seem to be a factor in the crash at this time. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
The California Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists of the dangers during Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) use. Use caution while traversing the open desert as desert foliage, dirt and rocks could cause damage to vehicles. Use seatbelts and helmets properly. Also, adjust seatbelts to rider height and wear properly fitting helmets.
