A mass shooting and subsequent house fire in Billings, Montana, resulted in the deaths of at least eight people, including multiple children, according to dispatch audio from emergency services. Calls to 911 reported "shots being fired" and a "child unconscious" at the residence.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after 6:00 p.m. on a Sunday evening. The dispatcher noted that a fire engine was already staged in the area, with a request for an additional engine made. During the call, the dispatcher relayed information about an unconscious child inside the home and was questioned about potential gunshot wounds. The dispatcher confirmed the status was unconfirmed at that time.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel observed a man outside the home, which was beginning to smoke. Further gunshots were heard as the house became engulfed in flames. The suspected gunman was later taken to a hospital, where he died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Authorities have stated that the gunman knew the victims, but no motive for the massacre has been released.