ST. CHARLES PARISH, La. (WKRC) – A driver fleeing police following a DWI investigation suffered injuries after being attacked by an alligator on June 7.
According to the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office and the Louisiana State Police, officers initiated a traffic stop on Interstate 310 due to erratic driving, including a tire blowout and striking a concrete barrier.
The driver, identified as 40-year-old Victor Rivas, was suspected of impairment. Authorities reported that Rivas fled the scene on foot, jumping from the elevated interstate into a nearby swamp.
While evading capture, Rivas was attacked by an alligator, leading to injuries on both arms. Despite these injuries, he continued to flee until police located him using a drone.
Authorities confirmed Rivas was hospitalized for non-life-threatening injuries. After his release, he was arrested and charged with operating a vehicle while impaired and resisting an officer.
Officials stated that the alligator involved was unharmed and returned to its habitat.