Police in Billings, Montana, are investigating a shooting that left eight people dead, including four children, during a family dinner on Sunday, August 23. The suspect, 44-year-old Alan Smith, later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to investigators.
Shooting and Fire Engulf Home
Police responded to the home on Sunday evening and heard gunshots coming from the back of the property just before the house was completely engulfed in flames. Investigators confirmed on Tuesday, August 25, that eight victims had died, including four children, and that the suspect had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and later died.
Among the dead were Brad Ireland’s ex-wife, Megan Ghekiere, and their two children, Owen Ireland, 13, and Chloe Ireland, 7. Also killed were Megan Ghekiere’s two stepchildren with her current husband Adam Ghekiere: Landon Ghekiere, 15, and Charlotte Ghekiere, 12.
Suspect Identified as Alan Smith
Brad Ireland, whose former wife and two children were among the victims, identified the shooter as Alan Smith. Ireland said Smith’s parents, who were also killed, had asked him to move out, but he returned on Sunday and opened fire.
Neighbor Jennifer Mercer praised Charlotte Ghekiere, saying: “The one thing we do know is that Charlotte was the hero. Charlotte called 911 and she tried to save her family. And that’s something the family does want out there.”
A witness named Ben said: “There were many red flags and many people spoke out. No one listened.”
Investigation and Community Response
Billings police Sgt. Jeff Stovall expressed condolences “to everyone affected by this awful tragedy” while noting that authorities were intentionally limiting details about the case “to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.” The investigation has been complicated by concerns about the structural integrity of the house after the fire burned it to its foundation, Stovall said.
Friends of the victims have set up two GoFundMe accounts to raise money for Adam Ghekiere and his ex-wife, Erica Schneider. Adam Ghekiere, who works at the airport in Billings, heard about the active shooting over a dispatch radio. After calling each family member, he raced across town to the Smith home.
When he arrived, the house was ablaze. Two hours later, he learned his wife and children had been killed. His children were not supposed to be there, as family dinner was usually on Friday, he said. “I don’t think he expected my kids to be there,” Ghekiere said, referring to the suspect. “Monster isn’t even enough to describe what he did.”
