Former Mayor Arrested for Killing Two Brothers in South Dakota; Also Shot Third Man to Death and went Home: Authorities

Tragedy strikes a small South Dakota town as three lives are lost to a senseless act of violence. The alleged perpetrator, a former law officer and ex-mayor of the town, now faces charges in connection with the shocking killings.

64-year-old Jay Ostrem has been placed in jail with a $1 million cash-only bond. The charges against him include three counts of first-degree murder, according to South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley’s statement released on Tuesday.

“The scene has been secured by law enforcement,” Jackley said. “The public is no longer at risk.”

The victims in question were identified as two brothers, aged 26 and 21, along with a 35-year-old man. The individuals’ identities have not been disclosed yet, as their loved ones are still being notified. No connection between the third victim and the brothers was mentioned in the document.

According to media reports, Ostrem had a long career in law enforcement spanning over twenty years in Wyoming and South Dakota. He previously held the position of mayor in Centerville, although the specific dates of his tenure are not currently accessible.

A man in Centerville contacted the police on Monday evening to report that his brother had been shot by an individual from across the street. The caller mentioned that the shooter had returned to their residence. The caller remained on the line with a dispatcher as he mentioned being shot as well. According to the document, he ceased speaking.

Ostrem was apprehended shortly thereafter. The document stated that there was an AR-style rifle on the ground near him, and he had a handgun in his pocket. Officers promptly responded to the residence where the call originated and successfully located all three victims.

According to the document, Ostrem’s wife reported to the police that she was sexually assaulted by a neighbor named Paul on Thursday. She informed Ostrem about the incident on Monday night. According to the document, she mentioned that Ostrem abruptly left the house in a state of anger.

It remains uncertain whether Ostrem has legal representation at this time. Attempts to reach Ostrem by phone were unsuccessful.

Centerville is located approximately 40 miles to the south of Sioux Falls.

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