Intoxicated Driver Plunges Car into Yahara River, Prompting Dramatic Rescue Effort

In a startling incident that unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, the Madison Police Department responded to a report of a car submerged in the Yahara River. The subsequent investigation led to the arrest of a 22-year-old man on charges of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, shedding light on the dangerous consequences of impaired driving.

Reckless Behavior Leads to Perilous Situation

Responding to the Emergency Call

The Madison Police Department received a call around 7:05 a.m. on Sunday, reporting a car in the Yahara River. Officers, along with the Madison Fire Department, rushed to the scene on Riverside Drive at Jenifer Street. Upon arrival, they quickly determined that no one was inside the vehicle, a crucial detail that likely prevented a more tragic outcome.

Tracing the Driver's Movements

Through their investigation, the police were able to identify the driver as James Vilavong, a 22-year-old man. Earlier in the night, officers had encountered Vilavong and assisted him in getting home from the 1300 block of East Washington Avenue. It was during this initial interaction that the officers suspected Vilavong was under the influence of alcohol.

Charges and Consequences

After processing Vilavong for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, the police arrested him on that charge, as well as two additional citations: failure to maintain control of his vehicle and failure to report the accident. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the serious legal and personal consequences that can arise from driving under the influence.

Removing the Submerged Vehicle

The Madison Fire Department's Hazardous Materials team worked closely with Schmidt's Towing to safely remove the vehicle from the Yahara River. This delicate operation required specialized expertise and equipment to ensure the safe extraction of the car, minimizing any potential environmental impact.

Community Involvement and Assistance

The investigation was aided by the involvement of nearby residents, who reported both Vilavong's need for assistance on East Washington Avenue and the presence of the vehicle in the river. This community engagement played a crucial role in the successful resolution of the incident, highlighting the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.

Lessons Learned and Preventive Measures

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the need for continued education and enforcement efforts to address this persistent issue. By raising awareness and implementing effective strategies, the community can work together to prevent similar incidents and promote safer roads for all.