OAKLAND — A car plunged into Lake Merritt Wednesday afternoon and the driver was able to make it to shore on his own, authorities said.

The incident happened about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Foothill Boulevard and Lakeshore Avenue.

It was believe the driver was going westbound on Foothill before the vehicle went into the lake. Police were investigating why the car went into the lake.

The driver got out on his own and made it to shore, officials said. It was not known if he swam or was able to walk in shallow water. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

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The car remained in the lake as of 3 p.m. as tow crews were having difficulty securing it so it could be pulled to shore, officials said.

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