Former South Dakota mayor Jay Ostrem was arrested for allegedly shooting three people, including a man on the phone with a 911 dispatcher at the time. Charged with first-degree murder, he is being held on a $1 million bail in Sioux Falls, about 45 minutes from the crime scene in rural Turner County. The motive for the shooting is unclear, with reports suggesting it was in retaliation for a sexual assault on Ostrem’s wife.
The victims were identified as Paul Frankus, Zach Frankus, and Timothy Richmond, who were all found dead inside the same home on Centerville’s main street. Ostrem possessed three guns at the scene and refused to cooperate with officers, eventually being taken into custody. If convicted, Ostrem could face the death penalty.
Ostrem, a former law enforcement officer, was the mayor of Centerville 15 years ago. He has a history of controversial behavior, including a sexual harassment lawsuit settled in 2012. Photos from the scene revealed Ostrem’s pro-gun and conservative beliefs as well as his support for Donald Trump.