An alligator attacked a man fleeing troopers during a DWI investigation Sunday evening, according to the Louisiana State Police.

Victor M. Rivas, 40, of Montz, was allegedly driving a Toyota Supra recklessly on Interstate 10 near Bonnabel Boulevard in Jefferson Parish. Investigators said the vehicle had struck a concrete barrier, causing a tire blowout.

Troopers later located the damaged Supra traveling south on Interstate 310 in St. Charles Parish and initiated a traffic stop.

While speaking with Rivas, troopers reported seeing signs of impairment. Before an arrest could be made, Rivas allegedly ran from officers and jumped from the elevated portion of I-310 into the swamp below.

Troopers and deputies with the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office searched for Rivas and later spotted him walking along U.S. Highway 61. When officers approached, Rivas fled a second time into a swampy area.

While running through the swamp, Rivas was attacked by an alligator and suffered injuries to both arms, police said. Despite those injuries, authorities said he continued trying to evade officers before he was eventually located and taken into custody.

Rivas was taken to a local hospital for treatment. He was later booked for second offense DWI and resisting an officer. Police also obtained additional warrants charging him with hit and run driving and careless operation in connection with the earlier crash in Jefferson Parish.

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