Captured on video, a 26-year-old man’s daring escape attempt in Missouri unfolded dramatically as he leaped headfirst off a bridge to evade police.
The Stone County Sheriff’s Office released footage showing Gavin Thor Lundgren, a resident of Kimberling City, making a desperate dash across a narrow bridge. In a bold move, he plunged headfirst into the waters of Table Rock Lake following a high-speed police chase in the early hours of July 18.
“This incident was certainly a unique one, and we’re thankful he survived the jump,” noted the sheriff’s office in an official statement. “He put up quite a fight during the arrest, leading to minor injuries among the deputies involved.”
The footage released by the Stone County Sheriff’s Office depicts Gavin Thor Lundgren diving headfirst off a bridge into Table Rock Lake, following an alleged pursuit with Missouri deputies. (Stone County Sheriff’s Office)
Following his stunt, Lundgren was detained and now faces several charges, including three counts of third-degree assault on a special victim, felony resistance, evading arrest, and reckless driving.
According to a probable cause statement, deputies attempted to stop Lundgren around 1:50 a.m. after spotting his 2004 Chevrolet Malibu traveling nearly 75 mph in a 45-mph zone, according to KOLR.
Instead of pulling over, authorities said Lundgren led deputies on a pursuit before abandoning his still-moving car and diving off the bridge into Table Rock Lake.
Gavin Thor Lundgren was arrested after authorities said he led deputies on a pursuit before diving off a bridge into Table Rock Lake. (Stone County Sheriff’s Office)
Three deputies were injured while taking Lundgren into custody, authorities said.
Investigators said Lundgren headbutted two deputies during the struggle.
Gavin Thor Lundgren is seen running across a bridge moments before diving into Table Rock Lake during an alleged attempt to evade Missouri deputies. (Stone County Sheriff’s Office)
Officials said deputies suffered injuries including facial bruising, cuts to their hands, elbows and forearms, and abrasions.
Lundgren is being held in the Stone County Jail without bond.