Joshua Tree woman dies in Hwy 62 crash

A 28-year-old woman from Joshua Tree was killed in a crash Tuesday night after she apparently lost control of her car on Twentynine Palms Highway, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The coroner identified the victim as Kimberly Elliott on Wednesday morning.

Authorities said Elliott was driving a Mitsubishi Galant east on the highway and collided with a dirt embankment as she was approaching Ronald Drive around 9:15 p.m. Her car rolled and she was partially ejected.

Deputies said several drivers stopped to help while emergency crews responded to the crash.

Elliott died at the scene. A 29-year-old man who was traveling with her was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center as a precaution but he wasn’t injured in the crash, according to the sheriff’s department.

Officials said it does appear alcohol and/or drugs played a role in the crash. The investigation continues.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, who hasn’t already been in contact with the sheriff’s department, is asked to call Deputy Grantham or Deputy Gernon at 760-240-7400.

Highway 62 was closed at Ronald Drive until 5:30 a.m. Wednesday.