A Marine is alleged to have led law enforcement on a 12 mile, high-speed motorcycle chase through Twentynine Palms last week.
The Sheriff’s Department reports that around 10:30 p.m. on July 3, a deputy saw a motorcycle with improperly displayed out-of-state license plates, and attempted to conduct a traffic stop near the intersection of Twentynine Palms Highway near Mesquite Road.
The rider of the motorcycle has been identified as Joshua Zelaya, 21, from Texas but currently stationed at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. According to the deputy Zelaya initially attempted to yield, before looking back at the Sheriff’s car and speeding away with another motorcycle.
The deputy reports pursuing the two motorcycles westbound along Twentynine Palms Highway, saying that the riders hit speeds of over 100 mph and blew through multiple stoplights and stop signs. Zelaya was apprehended when the deputy said he attempted to turn around near Lear Ave. The deputy says a struggle ensued, during which Zelaya was detained. The second motorcycle was not stopped.
The deputy learned Zelaya was an active duty marine and contacted the base’s Provost Marshal’s Office.
Joshua Zelaya was arrested for felony evasion with disregard for public safety. He was booked into the Morongo Basin Jail and has since been released on bail.
