Eight people, including at least two children, were killed after a gunman opened fire inside a Montana home that was then set ablaze. Police responded to a 911 call reporting an active shooting at the home in Billings just after 6 p.m. on Sunday. Authorities described the incident as a family disturbance, according to the Billings Gazette.
Two of the victims were identified as Charlotte, 12, and Landon, 15, according to a GoFundMe page set up for the family. Authorities have not confirmed how many victims died or shared any information about the deceased beyond that there were “multiple, including children,” 13 News Now reported. Landon, a rising sophomore in high school, was described in the fundraiser as a “loving, caring young man who was always willing to lend a hand.” Meanwhile, his little sister was remembered as being “funny, precocious and adorable — with just the right amount of stubborn.” She was preparing to start seventh grade this upcoming school year, the fundraiser said.
A separate GoFundMe set up to support the children’s father, Adam Ghekiere, an airport rescue firefighter, says his wife was among those killed. That fundraiser links back to the first, which is to support Landon and Charlotte’s mother. Smoke was rising out of the home as police arrived Sunday, and authorities found the suspect in the case outside with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
He was taken to the hospital, where he later died. Shortly after the initial response, the home was completely engulfed in flames, Billings Police Department Assistant Chief Shawn Mayo said on Monday, according to the Gazette. Putting out the fire was difficult as the scene was not immediately confirmed as secure — and because there were no fire hydrants in the subdivision, Billings Fire Chief Matt Hoppel said, adding that fire officials brought in water trucks to assist.
Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted during this incredibly difficult time,” Billings Police Sergeant Jeff Stovall said in a statement. However, to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, there are details we simply cannot release at this time,” Stovall added. The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation.
Authorities said there is no ongoing threat to the public.
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