Law Enforcement Fatally Shoot Suspect Pointing Gun at Them in Montana

Yellowstone County Sheriff says incident occurred after high-speed chase south of Billings

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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A suspect brandishing a gun was shot and killed by law enforcement Friday night following a pursuit on Blue Creek Road, according to Yellowstone County Sheriff Mike Linder. The incident began around 9:45 p.m. when Billings police tried to stop an apparent stolen vehicle with weapons inside, but the driver fled. The pursuit headed toward the Blue Creek area, where Yellowstone County deputies were responding to an unrelated call. After the vehicle broke down, one suspect grabbed a gun and allegedly pointed it at officers, who then fired and killed the suspect.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks and challenges law enforcement face when pursuing armed suspects, as well as the need for thorough investigations into officer-involved shootings to ensure accountability and public trust.

The details

According to Sheriff Linder, deputies used spike strips to damage the fleeing vehicle's tires, but the driver continued south on Blue Creek Road. When the vehicle broke down around mile marker 8, one of the three occupants allegedly grabbed a gun and pointed it at officers from the sheriff's office, Montana Highway Patrol, and Bureau of Indian Affairs who were on the scene. The officers then fired and killed the suspect.

  • The incident began around 9:45 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2026.
  • The vehicle broke down around mile marker 8 on Blue Creek Road.

The players

Mike Linder

Yellowstone County Sheriff who provided details about the incident.

Billings Police

Law enforcement agency that initially tried to stop the apparent stolen vehicle.

Yellowstone County Deputies

Law enforcement officers who responded to the pursuit and were on the scene when the shooting occurred.

Montana Highway Patrol

Law enforcement agency that was also on the scene when the shooting occurred.

Bureau of Indian Affairs

Law enforcement agency that was also on the scene when the shooting occurred.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure a thorough investigation is conducted to understand the full circumstances of this tragic incident.”

— Mike Linder, Yellowstone County Sheriff (ktvq.com)

What’s next

The Montana Department of Criminal Investigation is investigating the matter, and Sheriff Linder said he would release more information as it becomes available.

The takeaway

This case highlights the difficult and dangerous situations law enforcement can face when pursuing armed suspects, underscoring the need for comprehensive policies, training, and oversight to protect both officers and the public.