UPDATE POSTED AT 3:20 p.m. —
The Flathead County Sheriff's Office said a shooting in Columbia Falls left one person dead and another injured after an exchange of gunfire.
At about 7:09 a.m. May 11, 2026, the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and the Columbia Falls Police Department responded to the 200 block of Dawn Drive after reports of an assault involving a weapon.
Investigators said early information showed two people fired at each other, and both were struck.
Deputies arrived and secured the area while medical crews provided aid to the injured.
One person died at the scene.
Investigators with the sheriff's office, the crime scene team and the Flathead County coroner's office spent the day processing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
The person who died was taken to the Montana State Crime Lab for an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.
Officials have not released the person’s identity while they work to confirm it and notify family members.
The Flathead County Attorney’s Office has been informed and will review the findings to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.
The investigation remains active, and officials said no additional details were available.
ORIGINALLY POSTED AT 11:44 a.m. —
An investigation is underway near Columbia Falls following a report of gunshots Monday morning.
The Flathead County Sheriff's Office posted that deputies responded to the 200 block of Dawn Drive just after 7 a.m.
Detectives were on scene as of 9:30 a.m. conducting an active investigation into the report of shots fired.
The FCSO stated there is no known risk to the public and the scene has been secured.
Drivers are encouraged to avoid Dawn Drive as investigators process the scene.
We will update you with any new information.
