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LA QUINTA – A 21-year-old man suffered major but non-life-threatening injuries following a crash early Saturday morning.

Officials said that the Indio man was presumed to be under the influence due to him displaying signs of alcohol and/or drug intoxication as he was rushed to the hospital after a single-vehicle traffic collision near Avenue 52 and Jefferson Street in La Quinta at around 5:12 a.m. La Quinta Station deputies arrived within minutes and made contact with the driver and single occupant of the vehicle, Jose Garnica.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Garnica was driving a burgundy 2004 Acura southbound on Jefferson Street. As he approached the traffic circle at Avenue 52 he lost control after striking the curb. The vehicle overturned and landed upright, between two palm trees. When the vehicle came to a rest it burst into flames. Garnica, who was severely injured exited the burning vehicle. Since Garnica requires hospitalization, driving under the influence charges will be filed while he is not in custody.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Deputy Hinkle at the Thermal Station by calling (760) 863-8990.