A motorcyclist apparently itching to hook Fridley police into a high-speed chase during midday Tuesday took off at 100-plus miles per hour and crashed into a car after running a red light, authorities said.

The rider, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered life-threatening injuries on University Avenue and was taken by ambulance to Hennepin County Medical Center, police said. His name has yet to be disclosed.

University Avenue was closed in both directions between 44th and 53rd avenues.

Police said the motorcyclist was spotted on University Avenue near 61st Avenue "driving recklessly [and] exhibiting conduct that would suggest that he wanted the police to attempt to stop him."

A police sergeant who saw him activated his emergency lights and the motorcyclist fled south on University. Out of "safety concerns," no police pursuit was initiated, the police statement said.

The motorcyclist continued speeding south on University Avenue for about 1½ miles, disregarded stop lights and used turn lanes to roar past traffic. A witness told police that the motorcyclist ran the red light at 49th Avenue at more than 100 mph and struck a car that was going through the intersection.

The sergeant who first saw the motorcyclist tried to help the man. The car's driver was treated for minor injuries.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482