EVANSVILLE, Ind. — A local man is facing drunk driving charges after police say he drove his car down railroad tracks early Thursday evening. Rafael Rodriguez, 32, was arrested following a strange series of events that began when a pedestrian flagged down officers on Fulton Avenue.
The pedestrian reported a car was stranded on railroad tracks near Ohio Street, prompting an immediate response from the Evansville Police Department (EPD). Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered the vehicle approximately 50 feet down the tracks. Inside the car was Rodriguez, who told police that his friend had been the one driving, not him.
However, police noticed that Rodriguez displayed several signs of intoxication. Officers reported that he smelled strongly of alcohol, had slurred speech, and his eyes appeared bloodshot and watery. Despite his claims of innocence, the evidence was clear.
After further investigation, Rodriguez was arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and a railroad violation. Police did not indicate whether Rodriguez had caused any damage to the railroad tracks or surrounding property, but emphasized the dangers of driving on such hazardous terrain.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks of impaired driving, particularly in situations where the vehicle is placed in a perilous and unconventional location like the railroad tracks. Authorities urge residents to always make safe decisions behind the wheel and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Rodriguez was taken into custody and is currently awaiting further legal proceedings.
