(KXLG – Watertown, SD) In the early hours of January 12, 2025, an ATV went through the ice on Cottonwood Lake, leading to a rescue and subsequent arrest. At approximately 12:27 AM, the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a sinking vehicle. Deputies, along with the Cottonwood Fire Department and Cottonwood Ambulance, responded swiftly to the scene.
The ATV, driven by an adult male, had two occupants: another adult male and a juvenile female. Fortunately, all parties were able to exit the ATV and walk to shore, where emergency responders treated them.
The two adults were transported to Avera Marshall Hospital for treatment and later released, while the juvenile female was uninjured and released to family members.
The ATV driver was arrested on suspicion of criminal vehicular operation and transported to the Lyon County Jail.
The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the residents of Cottonwood who called for help and assisted the parties on shore. They also issued a caution about the safety of ice on lakes and rivers, emphasizing that ice thickness can vary and urging caution for those venturing onto the ice.
