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 .
Dispatchers reported hearing gunfire in the background during the call, said officials at a news conference. “All victims in this incident were fatal. Authorities received a 911 call at 6:01 p.m. local time on Sunday, August 23, according to the Billings Police Department. Officers arrived at the location approximately 11 minutes later and also heard additional gunshots, according to Assistant Chief of Police Shawn Mayo.
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?
“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.”
Upon the arrival of the officers, they saw a male person in the backyard and subsequently apprehended him. 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.
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.
