Montana Woman's Body Found in Freezer, Man Charged With Homicide

Authorities say Cerenity Marie Shawl was fatally shot and her body discovered in a basement freezer in Cut Bank, Montana.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A 36-year-old Montana woman named Cerenity Marie Shawl was found dead in the basement freezer of an apartment complex in Cut Bank, Montana. Authorities have arrested a man named Alfred Joseph Smith and charged him with her deliberate homicide. Shawl was fatally shot once in the head, according to the Glacier County Sheriff's Office.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic nature of domestic violence and the need for greater resources and support to prevent such crimes. The discovery of Shawl's body in a freezer also raises concerns about the safety and security of apartment buildings and the need for improved monitoring and security measures.

The details

On February 7, Shawl's body was discovered in the basement freezer of an apartment complex in Cut Bank. Police were alerted and launched an investigation, which led them to identify Alfred Joseph Smith as the suspect. Smith was arrested on February 9 during a traffic stop and charged with deliberate homicide. Authorities say Shawl was fatally shot once in the head.

  • Shawl's body was discovered on February 7, 2026.
  • Smith was arrested on February 9, 2026.

The players

Cerenity Marie Shawl

A 36-year-old woman from the Cut Bank, Montana area who was found dead in a basement freezer.

Alfred Joseph Smith

The man arrested and charged with the deliberate homicide of Cerenity Marie Shawl.

Glacier County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency leading the investigation into Shawl's death.

Cut Bank Police Department

The local police department that assisted in the investigation and arrest of the suspect.

Montana Department of Criminal Investigation

The state agency that collaborated with local law enforcement on the criminal investigation.

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What they’re saying

“This arrest would not have happened so quickly without the help from the public.”

— Michael Schultz, Cut Bank Police Chief (Cut Bank Police Department)

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Cerenity Marie Shawl. She meant so much to our family and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.”

— Cerenity Marie Shawl's Family (GoFundMe)

What’s next

Authorities say the criminal investigation into Shawl's homicide is ongoing. Smith is being held on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to make his next court appearance in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater resources and support to address domestic violence and ensure the safety of all community members. It also highlights the importance of vigilant security measures in apartment buildings to prevent such horrific crimes.