Multiple children and adults have been killed in a house fire and shooting at a residence in Billings, Montana, after the incident began as a family disturbance. The male suspect also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Gunfire heard during 911 call
Officers were summoned to a property at 315 White Star Circle on Sunday after a 911 call in which gunfire could be heard in the background. The entire house was destroyed in the blaze.
On Monday, Montana police confirmed that children and adults were killed in the incident. Interim Yellowstone County Sheriff Kent O'Donnell said at a press conference that law enforcement has identified all individuals involved, including a suspect, but is not yet releasing their identities.
Complex and dangerous scene
O'Donnell said he was "deeply saddened" after speaking with relatives of those involved. He stated: "As you can see, just by the amount of agencies involved in this, this is a very, very complex investigation. When the call went out last night for assistance, the cavalry was coming."
Fire crews arrived at 6.02pm but encountered gunfire and were unable to conduct normal suppression efforts, according to Billings Fire Chief Matt Hoppel. He stated: "Because the scene could not be immediately confirmed as secure, our firefighters were unable to operate as we normally would."
Firefighters hampered by hydrant shortage
Due to a shortage of fire hydrants in the area, firefighters were forced to combat the blaze using water from lorries, hampering the response time. Fire teams managed to prevent the flames from spreading to neighbouring buildings, though adjacent properties suffered slight heat damage.
Billings Assistant Police Chief Shawn Mayo revealed a man was found outside the residence with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was rushed to hospital where he subsequently died. O'Donnell confirmed that officers from Stillwater and Carbon counties also attended to provide support.
The origin of the blaze remains undetermined and the inquiry is ongoing, with O'Donnell indicating further details are expected to be disclosed on Wednesday.
