Richie Sambora ‘investigated over death threat’

Richie Sambora is reportedly under investigation by police after threatening to kill his ex-girlfriend.

The former Bon Jovi guitarist is alleged to have threatened Nikki Lund, his one-time flame and fashion collaborator on the clothing line Nikki Rich, according to the Daily Mail Online.

The website claims that the 55-year-old musician told his ex he would "dig a hole in the desert and bury her" in a threat allegedly made during a heated argument that took place over the phone on March 19.

"She held off going to cops hoping that the situation would resolve itself," an insider told the website, adding that the 33-year-old eventually made the report one week later, on the "advice from lawyers and business associates".

Lieutenant Jennifer Seetoo of the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station confirmed to the website that Richie is indeed a "person of interest", adding that a "report was taken regarding criminal threats" and that it is "an active investigation".

Meanwhile, Richie is thought to be currently vacationing with ex-wife Heather Locklear and their daughter, Ava, in Bora Bora, and will reportedly face questioning upon his return.

Nikki revealed last year that she and Richie had been in an on-off relationship for eight years. He has been dating Australian guitarist Orianthi, 30, since early 2014.

According to the website, Richie's working relationship with Nikki turned sour when their romance came to an end. They add that his threat against his business partner came after Nikki launched her first solo collection during LA Fashion Week on March 18.

"They are in the midst of unravelling their fashion business Nikki Rich. Things have become very bitter in recent weeks," a source told Daily Mail Online.

"The threat happened in the midst of Nikki launching her solo line. Richie apparently went mad on the phone at her and threatened to kill her. He said words to the effect that he was going to dig a hole in the desert and bury her."

According to Californian law, making criminal threats is a felony, punishable by up to four years in jail.