Watertown police subdue armed man at downtown fire station (Audio)
February 15, 2022
Mike Tanner
WATERTOWN, S.D.–A tense situation in Watertown ended peacefully early this morning.
Police Captain Steve Rehorst says officers were called to the downtown fire station at 129 First Avenue Northwest on a report of an intoxicated, armed and suicidal adult male in the station lobby….
Rehorst says the man did not comply with officers’ commands, so police made the next move…
Rehorst says as it turns out, the man was armed with an airsoft pistol…
The man, whose name was not released, was taken to a facility where his mental health needs can be addressed. He is not facing any criminal charges.
Rehorst says, “we are incredibly grateful this incident did not result in serious injury or death to the responding officers, the male, or anyone from the public. Our officers showed great restraint in this high-stress situation, allowing for a successful conclusion.”
Resources for suicidal individuals are available from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255), Watertown’s Human Service Agency (886-0123) and the Watertown Police Department (882-6210).
Hear the full interview with Captain Rehorst by clicking the link below:
