Texas man drives million-dollar Bugatti into a saltwater pond after pelican swoops low

Associated Press

Last update: November 12, 2009 - 9:29 PM

LA MARQUE, Texas - Police say a low-flying pelican distracted a driver in Texas, causing him to veer off a road and drive his million-dollar sports car into a salt marsh.

La Marque police Lt. Greg Gilchrist says the man claimed he lost concentration while driving his French-built Bugatti Veyron on Wednesday because the bird swooped into sight. Gilchrist says the driver dropped his phone, reached down to pick it up and strayed into the brackish water in La Marque, about 35 miles southeast of Houston.

Gilchrist does not know if the car can be salvaged but conceded that "salt water isn't good for anything."

He says the man, whose identity has not been released, was not injured in the accident.

Recent Nation stories

Sarah Palin dines, prays with Rev. Billy Graham, family in NC ahead of stop on her book tour - November 12, 2009

Sarah Palin dines, prays with Rev. Billy Graham, family in NC ahead of stop on her book tour - Sarah Palin on Sunday dined and prayed with the Rev. Billy Graham, who has counseled presidents and other politicians for decades. More