UPDATE: October 17 at 12:25 p.m.
Bozeman Police officers were involved in a shooting on October 16, 2024, resulting in the death of a woman who had made threats with a handgun.
Officers responded to a call around 8:00 p.m., where a woman reportedly threatened a family member and left a Bozeman home with a handgun. The officers started a search, concerned for the safety of others and herself, according to a release from the City of Bozeman.
After two hours, the woman was found in a parking lot at the northeast corner of West Oak Street and North 19th Avenue, the Bridger Peaks Town Center, still with the handgun. Officers said they engaged in almost three hours of communication, trying to de-escalate the situation.
Around 1:45 a.m., according to the city’s release, the woman set the gun down but quickly grabbed it again. Officers then fired several shots, with the woman dying from her injuries. No officers were hurt during the incident.
Following protocol, the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation is conducting an independent inquiry to ensure transparency.
Chief Jim Veltkamp expressed his condolences. “First, our most heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and all who are impacted by this loss,” Veltkamp said. “Events like these affect our entire community. We are committed to a thorough investigation of this incident and appreciate everyone’s patience as we learn more.”
This incident is under ongoing investigation to provide clarity and accountability.
Original coverage: October 17 at 7:29 a.m.
BOZEMAN, Mont. – A significant police presence continues at Bridger Peaks Town Center on N 19th Ave in Bozeman. Police have closed the entire parking lot following an incident late last night, with squad cars stationed at all entrances.
Police on scene have not said what led up to the closure nor are they releasing any details.
Josh Cuddeback was at the scene last night around 10pm and told NonStop Local reporter Alex McCollum he heard sirens and saw officers with rifles instructing workers to leave. “I heard them yell saying, don’t grab your gun, we will shoot you. And then I heard step back, step back,” Cuddeback said.
Bozeman Police and the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office are both on site. Details from law enforcement about the incident are still pending. Efforts to reach police for a statement have been unsuccessful at this time as officers are unable to speak on the scene.
Accessing Smith’s grocery store for early morning shopping is not possible and the store remains closed. People commuting on 19th Avenue this morning do not face any closures, but entry to the shopping center from 19th Avenue is restricted.
Local residents are encouraged to stay away from the area. NonStop Local will update this article as more information becomes available.
