Eight people, including four children and teenagers, were shot dead during a family dinner in Billings, Montana, United States, on Sunday (23). The shooter, Alan Smith, 44, invaded his parents' house, where relatives had gathered, opened fire and caused a fire that destroyed the property.
Among the victims were siblings Landon Ghekiere, 15, and Charlotte Ghekiere, 12, as well as half-siblings Owen Ireland, 13, and Chloe Ireland, 7. Also killed were Megan Ireland, mother of Owen and Chloe, and three other relatives. Smith was a step-uncle to some of the victims.
Charlotte managed to call emergency services while the shots were being fired. According to the acting sheriff of Yellowstone County, Kent O'Donnell, the call allowed them to quickly identify the location of the crime.
