Louisiana man fleeing DWI stop jumps into swamp, gets attacked by alligator, police say

METAIRIE, La. —

A man was attacked and injured by an alligator while trying to escape authorities during a DWI investigation in Louisiana, Sunday.

According to Louisiana State Police, on Sunday the driver of a Toyota Supra was driving recklessly on Interstate 10 in Metairie.

The driver is accused of striking a concrete barrier and blowing out the car’s tires.

The driver was later found by troopers on Interstate 310 in St. Charles Parish.

Troopers conducted a traffic stop and spoke with the driver, identified as 40-year-old Victor M. Rivas, 40.

After troopers determined he showed signs of impairment, state police say Rivas ran away.

State police say Rivas jumped from the elevated portion of I-310 into the swamp. He was then seen walking on another highway.

According to state police, Rivas jumped back into the swamp to evade police and was attacked by an alligator.

Both of Rivas’ arms were injured in the attack.

Despite his injuries, state police say Rivas continued to run before he was apprehended with the use of a drone.

Rivas was taken to an area hospital and later charged with DWI (second offense) and resisting an officer.

Additional warrants were obtained for hit-and-run and careless operation in connection with the earlier crash.