Hey hey Billings! Your one-stop source for local news is here. Continue reading for all the updates. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: The story of The Montana Heritage Center and 7 more events.
Today's riddle: What did the tree say when Spring arrived? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. 8 Family Members Killed In Montana Mass Shooting & House Fire (americanliberty.news) — Eight members of one family, including four children, were killed in a shooting and house fire just outside Billings, with investigators saying the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot and multiple fires were set inside the home. Billings-area schools, neighbors, and local agencies are rallying around surviving relatives with fundraisers, meal trains, and crisis support as authorities continue processing the scene and dispelling online rumors.
2. Alan Smith, Billings, Montana gunman had many red flags (scallywagandvagabond.com) — Billings residents are learning more about the man authorities say killed eight relatives and himself at a local family home, with friends and former in-laws describing years of troubling behavior and "red flags." The report highlights concerns about domestic violence and how relatives' warnings went unheeded, while placing the Billings tragedy in the context of mass killings nationwide.
3. Billings memorial growing as it honors 8 victims of mass shooting (ktvq.com) — Neighbors in Billings' West End have built a growing memorial to honor eight people killed in a recent house fire and shooting, drawing visitors from across the city. Residents describe a powerful mix of grief, support, and heavy traffic as people leave flowers, messages, and mementos, turning one corner of the neighborhood into a shared space for mourning and connection.
4. Fire Chief Matt Hoppel retires after more than 22 years with Billings (ktvq.com) — Billings' longtime fire chief, Matt Hoppel, has retired after more than 22 years serving the community, with a celebration at the fire station marking his sendoff. City leaders and colleagues praised his dedication, and Assistant Chief Kevin Bentz, a 32-year veteran, steps in as interim chief starting today, ensuring continuity for local fire and emergency services.
5. Long-awaited transformation complete with debut of Sam McDonald Stadium at Daylis (ktvq.com) — Billings Public Schools have unveiled the new $14.9 million Sam McDonald Stadium at Daylis on the Senior High campus, replacing the aging grandstand with a modern multi-use venue. With upgraded seating, lights, locker rooms, and a 10-lane track, the stadium will host football, soccer, and track for Billings Senior, West, and Skyview, with a grand opening parade and dedication planned Saturday.
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Ok Billings! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: What a re-leaf! (Thank you Flo G. for sending it in!)
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