NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. – A high-speed pursuit on Edgefield Road in North Augusta tragically concluded with a fatal motorcycle crash on Saturday night.

According to North Augusta Public Safety officials, the chase unfolded as officers attempted to pull over a motorcyclist who was reportedly speeding at over 80 mph in a 40 mph zone. Despite their efforts, the rider accelerated away, leading to a tense pursuit.

The situation escalated when a second Public Safety vehicle intervened at the intersection of Edgewood Drive, prompting the motorcyclist to execute a sudden U-turn and flee in the opposite direction. The chase continued at breakneck speed, with the rider trying to evade capture.

Tragically, the pursuit ended when the motorcyclist lost control near the intersection with Belvedere-Clearwater Road, resulting in a devastating crash. Officers on the scene quickly provided emergency assistance to the driver, who, according to reports, had a strong smell of alcohol.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of high-speed chases and the potential consequences of impaired driving. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to this tragic accident.

Responding officers immediately began to render aid. The driver reportedly smelled strongly of alcohol.

He was then identified as 46-year-old Roosevelt Walker III. Walker reportedly had three outstanding warrants for Identity Theft, speeding, and driving with a suspended license.

He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The tag on the bike came back expired and registered to a different man. The decal came back registered to a different vehicle, owned by yet another individual. And the VIN came back tied to a different tag, also expired, also registered to a different individual.

On Sunday, Coroner Darryl Ables announced that Walker died at Wellstar MCG from his injuries just after 11 p.m. Saturday night.