HELENA, MT – A tense situation unfolded outside the Lewis and Clark County Courthouse on Friday afternoon when a woman reportedly threatened an individual with a gun. Authorities are now examining the events that led to an officer-involved shooting, which has left the community on edge.
The incident began around 1:30 p.m., according to local law enforcement. The confrontation did not occur within the courthouse itself but just beyond its walls. The courthouse’s security team, which operates similarly to TSA, ensured that the threat did not breach the building’s defenses.
Sheriff’s office representatives have expressed concerns about courthouse security in light of the incident. With only one deputy currently assigned to the building, there are calls to bolster security measures to protect judges and the public. The sheriff noted that additional deputies could be crucial in preventing such occurrences in the future.
The situation escalated on Broadway Street, where the woman reportedly refused to heed commands from officers. In response, four law enforcement officials, including members from the sheriff’s office and the Helena Police Department, were involved in the shooting. The Montana Department of Criminal Investigation is now handling the investigation to determine the precise sequence of events and the appropriateness of the force used.
Sheriff’s officials explained that the complexity of the investigation lies in the existence of two separate crime scenes: one at the courthouse and another where the shooting took place. This necessitates thorough interviews with all involved parties, a process that will take some time.
Both the sheriff’s office and Helena police are conducting their own internal reviews, a standard procedure following such incidents. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the investigation to proceed, emphasizing the importance of relying on verified information rather than rumors.
As the investigation continues, local residents are left with many questions. The authorities have committed to keeping the public informed as new details emerge, seeking to maintain transparency and trust within the community.