At approximately 5:10 PM on October 16, Watertown Fire Rescue responded to a two vehicle collision at the intersection of 26th Avenue and 19th Street NE. Engine 4 and Medic 4 were dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, crews found two four-door vehicles with significant front end damage, debris scattered across the roadway, and a large fluid spill. One driver requested evaluation by WFR paramedics but ultimately declined transport to Prairie Lakes Emergency Department for further assessment of minor injuries. The other driver declined medical evaluation.
Engine 4 temporarily closed 26th Avenue just west of 19th Street for approximately 35 minutes to allow crews to clean up debris and manage the oil/fluid spill, that was worsened by wet road conditions.
In coordination with Codington County Sheriff’s Deputies, it was determined that the South Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT) needed to be contacted to sweep the intersection to help prevent further incidents.
Other agencies on scene included the Codington County Sheriff’s Office, Watertown PD, Performance Towing, Active Towing, and the State DOT.
Watertown Fire Rescue reminds all drivers to buckle up. Although this was a high-impact collision, both drivers sustained only minor injuries—thanks in part to seat belt use.