WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- The Watertown Police Department reports that on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at approximately 10:42 PM, officers responded to multiple reports of gunshots in southeast Watertown. Witnesses described seeing a blue Ford pickup truck leaving the scene shortly after the incident. Officers quickly located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop, apprehending the driver without incident.

A search of the vehicle uncovered several loaded firearms, 9mm ammunition, open alcohol containers, and marijuana. The investigation revealed that 19-year-old Jayveon Russell from Duncanville, Texas, had discharged his firearm multiple times after a verbal altercation; no injuries or property damage were reported.

Jayveon was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including Aggravated Assault, Reckless Discharge of a Firearm, Loaded Firearm in Possession While Intoxicated, DUI 1st, Possession of Marijuana (2 oz or less), Underage Possession of Tobacco, Underage Consumption of Alcohol, and an Open Container in a Motor Vehicle. He is being held at the Codington County Detention Center on a $5000 cash bond.

The Watertown Police Department assures the public that there is no ongoing threat to safety and thanks the Codington County Sheriff’s Office and the South Dakota Highway Patrol for their assistance. The incident remains under investigation.