Erratic Motorist On Beach Runs From Police Into Ocean: PD

SAGAPONACK, NY — A man in the midst of a mental health crisis ran from police into the ocean Saturday, police said.

According to Southampton Town Police, the incident took place at 3:43 p.m. when several calls came in about an "erratic motorist on the beach" near Peters Pond Lane in Sagaponack.

Police found the 37-year-old, who left his vehicle and ran into the ocean, refusing to get out, authorities said. He drifted into East Hampton Town waters and, after about two hours, was coaxed out of the water by his mother, who had been found and brought to the scene, police said.

Southampton Town Police and bay constables, as well as the East Hampton Town marine patrol helped to bring the man to shore safely; he was turned over to the care of his mother, police said.