Driver who crashed into the river in Southport charged with DWI

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — The man who drove into the Cape Fear River at Waterfront Park in Southport Tuesday night now faces charges.

Michael Ray Dart, 63, of North Chesterfield, Virginia is charged with Driving While Impaired.

Police, Fire, and EMS units arrived at approximately 11:25 pm to find a vehicle drifting toward the City’s municipal pier and the driver yelling for help. Southport Police Department received aid from the United States Coast Guard, who helped to transport Dart to emergency crews at the Southport Marina.

Dart was then treated and released from Dosher Memorial Hospital.

The vehicle, a 2024 Nissan Rogue, was recovered from the river the following day by Towboat US.

The City of Southport says other charges are pending.