St. Charles Parish, La. (6/8/2026) – A Montz man was injured by an alligator Sunday after fleeing Louisiana State Police during a DWI investigation in St. Charles Parish.
According to Louisiana State Police, Troopers with Troop B responded to reports of a Toyota Supra being driven recklessly on Interstate 10 near Bonnabel Boulevard in Jefferson Parish. Authorities said the vehicle had struck a concrete barrier and suffered a tire blowout.
Troopers later located the Supra traveling south on Interstate 310 in St. Charles Parish and conducted a traffic stop. While speaking with the driver, identified as 40-year-old Victor M. Rivas of Montz, Troopers observed signs of impairment and began a DWI investigation.
However, before the investigation could be completed, Rivas fled on foot. Authorities said he jumped from the elevated portion of Interstate 310 into the swamp below.
Troopers and deputies with the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office launched a search. A short time later, law enforcement spotted Rivas walking along U.S. Highway 61. When officers attempted to approach him, he fled again into a nearby swamp.
During that second attempt to evade capture, Rivas was attacked by an alligator. The attack left him with injuries to both arms. Despite those injuries, authorities said he continued fleeing.
Eventually, Troopers located and apprehended Rivas with assistance from drone technology.
Rivas was transported to a local hospital for treatment. After receiving medical care, he was charged with DWI and Resisting an Officer.
Investigators also obtained additional warrants charging him with Hit and Run and Careless Operation in connection with the earlier crash in Jefferson Parish.
Louisiana State Police reminded motorists that impaired driving can lead to serious and unpredictable consequences. Troopers encourage drivers to plan ahead, make responsible choices, and always designate a sober driver.
State Police also thanked the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office for its assistance during the search and arrest.
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