80-year-old dies trying to drive through flood waters from historic rainfall

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. (WECT/Gray News) – An 80-year-old died Tuesday trying to drive through a flooded road in eastern North Carolina, according to officials with the State Highway Patrol.

Authorities said Richard Walton Robinson, of Southport, was driving on NC 211 when he went around Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office vehicles with blue lights on blocking the road.

“The law enforcement vehicles were stationary in the roadway with blue lights activated as the roadway had become impassable due to flood waters at the Lockwood Folly River Bridge,” a news release stated.

Robinson’s car quickly became submerged in the water. Officials said a swift water rescue team was called but couldn’t find his vehicle.

Authorities with highway patrol said first responders went back to the river the next day and found Robinson’s car.

The 80-year-old man was found inside.

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