ST. CHARLES PARISH, LA – A Montz man faces multiple charges after a reckless driving incident on Sunday escalated into a highway jump, a swamp chase, and an encounter with an alligator.
The Initial Crash and Pursuit
Louisiana State Police Troop B initially responded to reports of a Toyota Supra driving recklessly on I-10 near Bonnabel Boulevard in Metairie. Authorities say the vehicle struck a concrete barrier, blowing out a tire, but continued driving until troopers finally pulled it over on I-310 in St. Charles Parish.
Troopers identified the driver as Victor Rivas, 40, of Montz, and noted clear signs of impairment. During the traffic stop, Rivas abruptly fled on foot, jumping off the elevated highway into the marsh below.
Swamp Escape and Alligator Attack
Deputies from the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office later spotted Rivas walking along US-61 (Airline Highway). When approached, Rivas ran back into the swamp and attempted to swim across a canal.
According to Trooper Kyle Wagner, that is when an alligator attacked Rivas, biting him on both arms. Despite sustaining injuries from the alligator, Rivas continued to evade law enforcement.
Drone Tracking and Arrest
To locate the suspect in the dense marsh, authorities deployed a police drone to track his movements. Rivas was ultimately cornered and taken into custody by troopers and deputies.
Rivas was transported to a local medical facility to be treated for the alligator bites before being booked into jail.
Severe Charges Filed
Louisiana State Police confirmed that Rivas faces several charges, including:
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Resisting an officer
- Hit-and-run
- Careless operation of a motor vehicle
“Impaired driving can lead to serious and unpredictable consequences,” the Louisiana State Police said in a statement, thanking the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office for their coordinated assistance in the arrest.
