BILLINGS, Mont. — Multiple victims, including children, died at a Billings West End home that burned down after responders were met with gunfire Sunday, authorities said Monday.
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Interim Yellowstone County Sheriff Kent O’Donnell said at a news conference at the Billings police evidence facility that law enforcement has identified all people involved in the incident, including a suspect.
He declined to release names, ages or any other identifying information about the victim, noting the investigation is continuing. He did say the victims include multiple adults and children.
O’Donnell added that the incident began as a family disturbance, and he was “deeply saddened” after speaking with family members of those involved.
“As you can see, just by the amount of agencies involved in this, this is a very, very complex investigation,” he said. “When the call went out last night for assistance, the cavalry was coming.”
During the initial 911 call to the residence at 315 White Star Circle, gunshots could be heard in the background, according to O’Donnell.
When firefighters arrived at the scene around 6:02 p.m., they encountered gunfire, which prevented them from conducting normal suppression efforts, according to Billings Fire Chief Matt Hoppel. The scene quickly became complex and dangerous, with securing the area and protecting the public the first priorities, he said.
"Because the scene could not be immediately confirmed as secure, our firefighters were unable to operate as we normally would," Hoppel said.
Due to a lack of fire hydrants in the area, firefighters were forced to haul water using trucks, which further slowed the response, though they were able to prevent the spread of the fire to other homes.
The home was completely consumed by the flames. Nearby properties sustained some minor heat damage, according to officials.
A man was discovered outside the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Billings Assistant Police Chief Shawn Mayo. He was taken to a hospital and later died.
O’Donnell said deputies from Stillwater and Carbon counties also responded to assist.
Authorities have not determined the cause of the fire and expect to continue the investigation for the next few days. There is no ongoing threat to the public. O’Donnell said he expects to release more information Wednesday.
This is a developing story. Check back for details.
A GoFundMe has been set up to benefit the victims' family.
A second GoFundMe has been set up also.
Related: Police: West End house burns after shots are fired in Billings
