Morning Collision at 9th Avenue SE and 5th Street SE Disrupts Traffic in Watertown

Steve Jurrens
Oct 14
1 min read

Two-vehicle collision at a city intersection. A worker inspects damage near a yellow Jeep and gray SUV. Twilight setting, emergency lights.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - A two-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning disrupted traffic at the intersection of 9th Avenue SE and 5th Street SE, prompting a swift response from Watertown Police and Fire/Rescue.

At approximately 7:21 AM, emergency crews were dispatched to the scene where a 2014 Jeep Wrangler, driven by a 21-year-old Watertown male, collided with a 2019 Ford Escape operated by a 24-year-old Watertown female. The Jeep was traveling southbound on 5th Street SE when it struck the Ford Escape, which was attempting a westbound turn onto 9th Avenue SE from the northbound lane.

Firetruck and worker cleaning up a car crash involving two vehicles at an intersection near Taco Bell. Emergency lights are flashing.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and both drivers declined medical attention. However, both vehicles sustained disabling damage and were subsequently towed from the scene.

Following an investigation, the driver of the Ford Escape was cited for:

· Failure to Yield (SDCL 32-26-19)

· Expired License Plates (SDCL 32-5-2.4)

· Failure to Use Seatbelts – Front Seat (SDCL 32-38-1)

Watertown Fire/Rescue assisted at the scene, and traffic was partially diverted for approximately 35 minutes while crews cleared the intersection.

Local authorities remind drivers to remain alert at intersections and ensure compliance with seatbelt and registration laws to help prevent future incidents.

SUV and Jeep with front damage at intersection. Worker in orange vest inspects scene. Red traffic lights, city background, evening.