DWI Suspect Attacked By Alligator While Trying To Escape

A Louisiana man accused of driving while intoxicated found himself facing more than just law enforcement Sunday after being attacked by an alligator while attempting to evade capture.

According to Louisiana State Police, Victor M. Rivas, 40, of Montz, was driving a Toyota Supra recklessly on Interstate 10 near Bonnabel Boulevard in Metairie when he struck a concrete barrier, blowing out the vehicle’s tires.

Troopers later located the vehicle on Interstate 310 in St. Charles Parish and conducted a traffic stop. During the investigation, authorities said Rivas showed signs of impairment.

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Before the investigation could be completed, Rivas allegedly fled on foot, jumping from an elevated section of Interstate 310 into a nearby swamp.

Authorities later spotted him walking along U.S. Highway 61, but police say he re-entered the swamp in another attempt to avoid arrest.

That’s when the situation took an unexpected turn.

According to State Police, Rivas was attacked by an alligator while moving through the swamp, suffering injuries to both arms.

Despite the attack, authorities said Rivas continued trying to flee before ultimately being located with the assistance of a drone and taken into custody.

Rivas was transported to a local hospital for treatment. He was later charged with DWI (second offense) and resisting an officer.

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