Driver Rescued From Sinking Vehicle After I-95 Crash, Then Arrested

GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. – What began as a single-vehicle crash early Monday morning quickly turned into a life-or-death rescue on the I-95 northbound off-ramp near Highway 99 and the Buc-ee’s location.

Just before 1:30 a.m., Glynn County Police officers responded to reports of a vehicle that had left the roadway and plunged into a retention pond. Investigators say a black Chevrolet Colorado failed to negotiate the curve of the off-ramp, crashed through two Buc-ee’s perimeter fences, and came to rest in the water.

When officers arrived, the truck was already beginning to sink. Inside, they found the driver, 57-year-old Mario Archer, still in the vehicle as it filled with water. Although Archer was moving, he made no attempt to escape on his own.

Officers Hames, Kennedy, Pritchett, and Gracia immediately entered the pond. One officer shattered a window, allowing them to pull Archer from the sinking truck before it submerged completely.

During the rescue, Archer became combative with officers. He was taken into custody at the scene and charged with two counts of felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer. Two officers sustained minor injuries during the encounter.

Archer did not appear to have visible injuries but was transported to a local hospital as a precaution. After being medically cleared, he was booked into the Glynn County Detention Center.

The crash and rescue remain under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Glynn County Police Department Non-Emergency line at (912) 554-3645 or provide tips anonymously through Silent Witness at (912) 264-1333.