Police Officer Jermaine Anthony Gibson

Jermaine Anthony Gibson

Officer Jermaine Gibson was killed in a high-speed chase after his patrol car left the road and collided with a tree on South Palm Canyon Drive near Mesquite Avenue.

Officer Gibson attempted to pull over a stolen vehicle at approximately 11:30 pm and gave chase after the suspect failed to pull over. His vehicle left the road and crashed in Palm Springs at approximately 11:55 pm. The suspect vehicle also crashed and two suspects were taken into custody.

Officer Gibson was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after midnight.

The 35-year-old driver was charged with second degree murder and driving under the influence. On July 15, 2016, he was convicted of second degree murder, evading a peace officer causing injury or death, and gross vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence. On September 9, 2016, he was sentenced to life. He will be eligible for parole in 32 years.

Officer Gibson was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient. He had served with the the Cathedral City Police Department for approximately 18 months and had served in law enforcement for a total of three years. He is survived by his wife and infant son.