Alleged DUI Incident in Watertown: Rollover crash on SD Highway 20

On Tuesday evening, a single-vehicle rollover crash reportedly took place on SD Highway 20 near Airport Drive. According to KXLG – Watertown, SD, the mishap occurred around 5:08 PM when a 2003 Silver Ford Escape, driven by 23-year-old Taylor Rowland, lost control. The vehicle allegedly veered into the north median and flipped multiple times before coming to rest on its driver’s side, facing west. Fortunately, no one else was involved in this incident.

As a precaution, one westbound lane of SD Highway 20 was shut down for about 30 minutes while the Watertown police conducted a thorough investigation. Emergency responders from Watertown Fire Rescue quickly assessed Rowland at the scene. She was then transported to Prairie Lakes Hospital with injuries that were thankfully non-life-threatening.

However, the investigation took a concerning turn when officers noticed signs of impairment. A DUI investigation was initiated, suggesting that alcohol may have played a role in the crash. Consequently, Rowland was arrested and taken to the Codington County Detention Center, facing several charges, including DUI 1st, Driving While Suspended, and Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility.

The Watertown Police Department expressed their gratitude for the support from Watertown Fire Rescue and the locals who stayed on the scene to assist and provide witness accounts. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving and the potential consequences of impaired driving.