This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

South Salt Lake police have identified the man who died in a motorcycle crash while trying to elude pursuing officers.

Sgt. Darin Sweeten said Caesar Cruz, 20, died when the motorcycle he was driving collided with a Jeep on State Street near 3750 South about 3 p.m. Thursday.

His female passenger, identified as Anna Guerrero-Perez, also 20, was still in critical condition at the hospital Friday, though doctors reported her vital signs had stabilized, Sweeten said.

Police remain baffled as to why Cruz decided to flee, since neither he nor Guerrero-Perez were believed wanted for any crimes.

Sweeten indicated detectives may learn more when Guerrero-Perez recovers enough to be questioned.

SSLPD officers had responded to a report of a domestic dispute in progress at 3500 S. State St. on Thursday afternoon. However, when approached, the couple jumped on the motorcycle and sped away.

Both were wearing helmets, but Cruz died at the scene of the crash from massive injuries.

The driver of the Jeep also was taken to the hospital in fair condition.

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