Several people, including children, have lost their lives following what officials suspect began as a "family disturbance" that culminated in gunfire and a house consumed by flames in Billings, Montana.
Authorities received a 911 call at 6:01 p.m. local time on Sunday, August 23, according to the Billings Police Department. Dispatchers reported hearing gunfire in the background during the call, said officials at a news conference. Officers arrived at the location approximately 11 minutes later and also heard additional gunshots, according to Assistant Chief of Police Shawn Mayo.
Upon the arrival of the officers, they saw a male person in the backyard and subsequently apprehended him. He was transported to the hospital with what seemed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, where he later succumbed to his injuries, according to officials.
As officers were on their way, the residence was completely consumed by flames, leading to the intervention of the Billings Fire Department. The presence of fire and the chaotic scene, coupled with reports of gunfire, hindered authorities from conducting any rescue or recovery operations.
Montana shooting and house fire: Are victims identities revealed?
Sheriff Kent O'Donnell of Yellowstone County confirmed that several adults and children have lost their lives. Authorities have stated that they will not disclose the total number of victims, nor their ages, genders, or familial connections at this time. O'Donnell mentioned that both multiple victims and a suspect have been identified.
“All victims in this incident were fatal. The number of victims, age and other biographical information will be released later so that notifications can be made,” police said.
What was Montana shooting and house fire motive?
The officials did not disclose a motive behind the shooting and fire. Mayo stated that there is no current threat to the public. Residents of the neighborhood who were evacuated earlier have been permitted to return to their homes.
“The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative Office and will provide updates as time allows. We ask that the public avoid the crime scene so that extra resources are not needed to handle an increase in traffic and scene security. This will be a multi-day evidence collection event,” the statement continued.
“Our prayers go out to the victims and their loved ones. We also need to lift up those who had to respond to this event, including the call taker who took the initial call. We want to thank The Billings Police Department, Montana Highway Patrol, MSU Billings Police, Billings Fire Department, AMR, Airport Fire and Laurel Fire for their assistance.”
Montana Rep reacts
In an X post, Montana Rep. Troy Downing said, “My thoughts are with those affected by last night’s shooting and fire in Billings.”
“Thank you to the law enforcement officers, firefighters, and medical personnel who responded to a dangerous and fast-moving situation. I’m grateful for their service to our community,” Downing added.