WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG) In the early hours of Saturday, March 23, 2024, a vehicle fire led to a DUI arrest in Watertown, SD. At approximately 2:04 AM, the Watertown Police Department and Watertown Fire/Rescue responded to a motor vehicle fire at the intersection of 6th Street NE and 9th Avenue NE.

Upon arrival, a 2000 Ford Ranger was found fully engulfed in flames in the roadway. The driver, a 19-year-old male from Wentworth, SD, had managed to exit the vehicle safely before the fire spread. He was evaluated on the scene by Watertown Fire/Rescue paramedics and declined medical treatment.

The fire was extinguished within minutes of the crew’s arrival, using approximately 150 gallons of water. Despite their efforts, the vehicle is estimated to be a total loss and was towed from the scene by Performance Towing.

During the investigation, it was revealed that the driver had been doing multiple “burnouts” in the area before the vehicle’s engine caught fire. Therefore also admitted to consuming alcohol before driving. A DUI investigation was conducted, and the driver was found to be impaired. He was subsequently arrested for DUI 1st Offense and Exhibition Driving.

The fire crew and police were on the scene for approximately 35 minutes, ensuring the area was safe and conducting the necessary investigations.