Bike rider José Miguel Rojas Bordones died Sunday in an accident while competing in the Fecha Rally Caldera.

Rojas, a Rally2 rider, crashed roughly 206 kilometers into the second Selective Section. The race was immediately stopped following the accident while Rojas subsequently died from his injuries. Another rider, César Mera, was also seriously injured during the day and airlifted to the hospital.

Nicknamed “El Chito”, Rojas was a rider from Tierra Amarilla who competes in the Chilean Rally-Raid Championship.

“The race’s emergency systems were immediately activated, providing on-site assistance and coordinating with emergency teams,” reads a statement from Atacama Race shortly after stopping the event.

“From Atacama Race, we express our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and team of the deceased rider. We also stress our commitment to provide all necessary support and collaboration in any investigation that may arise from this event.

“We appreciate the understanding, respect, and support of the entire rally community under these circumstances.”

The Fecha Rally Caldera was the first round of the Atacama Race season, a five-race calendar supporting the Campeonato Chileno de Rally Raid. Many W2RC regulars including Rebecca Busi and Sebastián Guayasamín also took part in the SSV class as extra preparation.

Featured image credit: José Rojas