Chattanooga: Man nearly drowns after betting he could swim swollen creek

An 18-year-old man nearly drowned Thursday afternoon when he attempted to swim across the South Chickamauga Creek, according to Bruce Garner, public information officer for the Chattanooga Fire Department.

The man, whose identify was not released, was reportedly drinking with friends at the Hooter’s Restaurant on Brainerd Road and bet a friend $50 that he could make it across the flooded creek adjacent to the restaurant.

About halfway into his attempt, the man was carried downstream by the swift current to the Brainerd Road bridge pylon, which he clung to while awaiting rescue by the Chattanooga fire department.

He was treated by paramedics with the Hamilton County EMS for cold and exhaustion and was released, Mr. Garner said.