What happened to the Florida man driving a burning car?

He was arrested on DUI charges after driving a car that was engulfed in flames and later refused to submit to a test.

What evidence did authorities have against the driver?

Authorities noted a strong smell of alcohol, the driver's bloodshot and glassy eyes, slowed speech, and the vehicle being on fire.

Was anyone else in the car with the suspect?

Yes, according to a Facebook post mentioned in the report, the driver's wife was in the car with him during the incident.

Home / Crime and Justice / Florida Man Drives Car While It's On Fire

Florida Man Drives Car While It's On Fire

27 Jan

•

Summary

Suspect drove a car engulfed in flames while allegedly intoxicated.
Witnesses reported the vehicle was smoking heavily before catching fire.
The driver refused a DUI test despite strong alcohol odor and slurred speech.

Florida Man Drives Car While It's On Fire

Deputies in Brevard County, Florida, arrested a man on DUI charges for driving a vehicle that was actively on fire. The incident occurred when officers were responding to a brush fire and observed the vehicle in question.

Witnesses reported seeing the suspect, Patrick Rinaldi, driving on U.S.-192 with heavy smoke emanating from his car. He briefly stopped before continuing to drive as the entire vehicle became engulfed in flames. According to an arrest affidavit, Rinaldi claimed to have only consumed one beer.

Upon interaction with deputies, Rinaldi exhibited signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. A strong odor of alcohol was detected. The affidavit stated he had his wife in the car and had to stop due to the fire, with difficulty assisting her escape.