High-Speed Chase Ends With Arrest

A 21-year-old man accused of leading deputies on a high-speed chase, allegedly while drunk behind the wheel of a stolen car, was behind bars today.

Michael Dean Martin of Joshua Tree was arrested Wednesday after a seven- minute pursuit that stretched from Cabazon to Desert Hot Springs, sheriff’s Sgt. Anthony Williams said.

Deputies began following Martin because the 2001 Chevrolet Camaro he was driving apparently matched the description of a vehicle being sought by the California Highway Patrol in connection with a non-injury hit-and-run crash on the 10 Freeway.

According to the Sheriff’s Department, Martin exited the freeway and began driving the wrong way in the traffic circle on Apache Trail in Cabazon, but did not stop for a deputy.

“When the deputy activated his overhead lights on Main Street at Apache Trail, the driver and lone occupant of the Camaro failed to yield … and a pursuit of the suspected intoxicated driver was initiated,” Williams said.

The chase reached speeds of about 110 mph, according to law enforcement radio transmissions. It came to an end at 5:47 p.m. at state Route 62 and Dillon Road, when one of the tires on the Camaro blew, Williams said.

Martin was booked on suspicion of vehicle theft, possessing a stolen vehicle, reckless evading of a peace officer and driving under the influence.