Alligator attacks Louisiana man who fled DWI investigation by leaping into a roadside swamp
Rivas faces charges of DWI, resisting arrest, hit-and-run and careless operation
A 40-year-old man sustained injuries to both arms after an alligator attacked him in a swamp he had entered in an attempt to evade a driving whilst impaired investigation, Louisiana State Police have confirmed.
The pursuit of the male suspect, subsequently identified as Victor M. Rivas, began on 7 June after troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop B received reports of a Toyota Supra being driven erratically on Interstate 10 near Bonnabel Boulevard in Jefferson Parish, from the department. The vehicle was also reported to have struck a concrete barrier and suffered a tyre blowout.
Traffic stop and signs of impairment
Troopers conducted a traffic stop after the Supra was observed heading south on Interstate 310 in St. Charles Parish. During their interaction with Rivas, officers said they noted signs of impairment.
As the DWI investigation got under way, police allege that Rivas bolted on foot and leapt from the elevated section of Interstate 310 into a nearby swamp.
Alligator attack and apprehension
Working alongside deputies from the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office, troopers launched a search for Rivas, who was later spotted on foot along US Highway 61.
"When law enforcement approached, he fled again into a swampy area, where he was attacked by an alligator and sustained injuries to both arms," the press release alleges. "Despite his injuries, Rivas continued fleeing before being located and apprehended with the assistance of drone technology."
Rivas was taken to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to a news release from the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office. The alligator was reported to have escaped the incident unharmed.
Charges and police statement
As listed in the press release and confirmed by PEOPLE with the Louisiana State Police and jail records, Rivas was charged with operating a vehicle whilst impaired and resisting an officer. Louisiana State Police further confirmed to PEOPLE that he also faces charges of hit-and-run and careless operation.
"Impaired driving can lead to serious and unpredictable consequences. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions, plan ahead, and always designate a sober driver," the press release states.
"Louisiana State Police appreciates the strong partnership and coordinated efforts of the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office in bringing this incident to a successful resolution."
