Driver dead after shootout with California Highway Patrol near Riverside

A truck driver was killed during a shootout with California Highway Patrol officers after an early-morning traffic stop near Riverside on Saturday.

A passenger in the truck, who authorities believe was not injured, fled the scene on foot and has not been captured, authorities said.

The incident occurred about 1:45 a.m. on East La Cadena Drive in Highgrove, an unincorporated area north of Riverside.

Two CHP officers stopped the Silver Dodge pickup truck when the driver began shooting at the officers, hitting their patrol car, said Riverside County Sheriff’s Cpl. Robert Martinez.

The officers returned fire, striking the truck and the driver, who drove a short distance before hitting a chain-link fence, Martinez said.

The truck driver was pronounced dead at the scene. He has not been identified.

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Neither of the CHP officers were injured. Their names were not released. Both have been placed on administrative leave during the investigation.

Officials have not identified a motive for the shooting. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s homicide unit at 951-955-2777.

Twitter: @carlariveralat

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