Gunman kills multiple family members before setting house ablaze in Billings, Montana
A shooting and subsequent fire at a Billings home left several adults and children dead, including the gunman, who died by suicide. Authorities are withholding victim identities pending investigation.
A gunman opened fire inside a residence in Billings, Montana, before igniting the house, killing multiple adults and juveniles, officials said. The suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and the blaze quickly engulfed the home, complicating the crime-scene investigation.
Interim Yellowstone County Sheriff Kent O’Donnell told a news conference that the victims have been identified but their names, ages and exact numbers will not be released at this time. He added that the fire and the water used to suppress it will slow evidence recovery and asked the public for patience.
Police and sheriff’s deputies responded to the 300 block of White Star Circle at about 6:01 p.m. on Sunday after hearing gunshots on a 911 call. Officers arrived within ten minutes, heard further gunfire from the back of the house, and three minutes later the structure was fully aflame. Firefighters faced limited water access and fewer hydrants, which hampered their efforts, according to Billings Fire Chief Matt Hoppel.
Sheriff O’Donnell said a motive has not yet been determined and that the cause of the fire is under investigation. Billings Police Sgt. Jeff Stovall said some details are being withheld to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.