Naked man runs along Florida interstate, hops onto flatbed semi

SARASOTA, Fla. — Motorists in Florida are used to bizarre traffic incidents, but this one turned heads for sure.

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A man was taken into custody on June 30 after authorities said he ran naked down an interstate highway before climbing on the flatbed of a semi-truck, authorities said.

The incident occurred at about 4:10 p.m. EDT during a rainstorm near Sarasota, WWSB-TV reported. Drivers slowing down in the southbound lanes of Interstate 75 reported seeing the man in the buff, although he was wearing sneakers, according to the television station.

After dodging in and out of traffic, the man climbed on the back of a stopped flatbed semi in the center lane, WFLA-TV reported.

According to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, the man was taken into “protective custody” by deputies, the television station reported.

Sheriff’s office spokesperson Douglas Johnson said the man, who was not identified, was taken to an area hospital for a “mental health evaluation,” WWSB reported.

“While we don’t know what may have precipitated this man’s actions, it’s apparent that he was exhibiting abnormal behavior,” Johnson said. “This was a very dangerous situation for the man and the motorists traveling the interstate at that time. We’re thankful we were able to resolve the situation safely.”

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