SUV breaks through ice after young man drives onto frozen North Park Lake

McCANDLESS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — An SUV partially broke through ice after a young man drove onto frozen North Park Lake in McCandless Township late Wednesday night.

The 24-year-old, who is from Franklin Park, attempted to drive across the lake and became stuck when one wheel of the SUV broke through the ice, police said.

The incident was reported about 10:30 p.m. in the area of Babcock Boulevard and Pearce Mill Road.

Police and firefighters were called. Some of them were seen on the frozen lake near the SUV, while others were on the hillside alongside it.

No one was hurt, officials said. The driver was able to get out of the SUV to safety.

“He was lucky to get out, and we hope this serves as an example to stay off the ice in North Park. It’s dangerous, without a doubt,” Lt. Scott Scherer, Allegheny County Police District 3 Commander, said.

The driver told police he thought it would be fun to drive on the ice. However, then he claimed he mistook the lake for a parking lot when entering from the boat ramp area.

Police noted that there are “boat launch” signs in the area, as well as signs that say all activity except for ice fishing are prohibited on the ice.

The SUV will be removed from the lake once crews have the necessary equipment.

Police said the driver, who was not under the influence, could face charges if deemed appropriate after further investigation.

RAW: SUV falls through ice on North Park Lake

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