On July 21, 2023, police were called to the scene at Daigleville Bridge on Main Street after reports of a car in the bayou. When officers arrived, they found a vehicle submerged in the water, with the driver already safely outside. Investigation revealed that an unidentified car had initially collided with the bridge’s barricade arm, causing damage.
As the driver of that car inspected the damages to both their vehicle and the barrier, a second car, driven by Jesus Garcia (38) of Houma, attempted to pass around them and ended up plunging into the bayou. The driver responsible for damaging the bridge barricade then left the scene.
When officers made contact with Garcia, they suspected him of driving under the influence. Tests confirmed that his blood alcohol level was more than double the legal limit. He was charged with driving while intoxicated (2nd offense) and operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license. Garcia was taken into custody and booked at TPCJC. The submerged vehicle was later safely removed from the water.