Andrézieux-Bouthéon, France – A 49-year-old man was rescued Sunday evening after his utility vehicle plunged into the Loire River, prompting a large-scale emergency response. The incident highlights the potential dangers of roadways near waterways and has sparked an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event.
Vehicle Submerged Near A72 Motorway
Authorities are investigating whether the incident was intentional.
- The incident occurred shortly before 7:50 p.m. on Sunday.
- The vehicle entered the Loire River near Chemin August-Arsac.
- The driver was conscious when rescued and transported to a local hospital.
- A gendarmerie investigation is underway to determine the cause.
The alert came into the departmental fire brigade operational center just before 7:50 p.m. on Sunday, with witnesses reporting a utility vehicle had driven into the Loire River, north of Andrézieux-Bouthéon. The vehicle went into the water on Chemin August-Arsac, a narrow road running perpendicular to the A72 motorway.
When firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the utility vehicle “partly submerged in the Loire,” according to a source within the Loire fire brigade. Fortunately, the 49-year-old driver was still inside the vehicle but was conscious.
Firefighters and police personnel worked together to extract the man from the vehicle and bring him safely to the riverbank. He was then provided medical assistance by Samu 42 and transported to the North hospital in Saint-Priest-en-Jarez for further evaluation and treatment.
Investigation Launched
The rescue operation involved a total of seventeen firefighters, including specialized water rescue units. Following the rescue, a gendarmerie investigation was initiated to determine the exact circumstances that led to the vehicle entering the river. Investigators are currently prioritizing the hypothesis of a deliberate act.
What should you do if you witness a vehicle entering the water? Immediately call emergency services (112 in Europe) and provide your location and a description of the vehicle. Do not attempt a rescue yourself, as this could put you in danger.
Authorities have not released further details regarding the driver’s condition or the ongoing investigation. Updates will be provided as they become available.
