Update 1:45 p.m., Dec. 1
The man who shot an unruly patron outside the Montana Club in Billings Wednesday night was not affiliated with law enforcement, contrary to initial reports, Billings Police Lt. Matt Lennick said Thursday.
Lennick said in an email to MTN News that a retired Wyoming law enforcement officer was initially identified as the shooter by callers and bystanders.
While the retired officer was at the scene, police determined another patron, who was not involved with law enforcement, fired the bullet that struck the 35-year-old patron the in chest, according to Lennick.
No one has been arrested. Lennick did not identify any of the involved parties.
Update 7:35 p.m.
An unruly patron was shot by a retired Wyoming law enforcement officer Wednesday night outside the Montana Club after he waved a gun at him in the parking lot, according to Billings police.
Lt. Bret Becker told Q2 News that the 35-year-old man was arguing with staff at the restaurant around 5:40 p.m. at 1791 Majestic Lane when he was escorted out by the retired officer, who was also eating there.
In the parking lot, the patron reached into his vehicle and grabbed a gun, Becker said. The retired officer pulled out his concealed weapon, and a scuffle ensued, according to Becker.
The retired officer shot the man in the chest, and he was taken to a Billings hospital. His condition was not available Wednesday night.
No arrests have been made, and Becker said the retired officer is cooperating with the investigation.
The Montana Club did not close during the incident.
Update: 7:20 p.m.
The man who shot the patron told authorities at the scene that he was a retired law enforcement officer from Wyoming, Lt. Bret Becker said.
He is currently not working for Billings police or from the area, Becker said.
The man was not arrested but is working with police, Becker said.
Billings police are investigating a shooting outside the Montana Club restaurant in Billings Wednesday night.
A 35-year-old patron was arguing with staff at the restaurant at 1791 Majestic Lane and was escorted outside around 5:40 p.m., police said in a tweet.
The patron was armed and approached outside by another person with a gun, Sgt. Bret Becker told MTN News at the scene.
The patron was shot in the chest and taken to a local hospital, Becker said.
Multiple law enforcement vehicles from the Billings Police Department, the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office and emergency ambulance personnel responded to the scene.
This is a developing story. Check back for details.
83605, Shooting. At 1736 hours BPD, YCSO and EMS responded to a shooting outside of the the MT Club at 1791 Majestic Ln. A 35 year old unruly patron was arguing with customers and after being escorted outside and a shooting between that male and another citizen ensued. -LT Becker
— BillingsPD (@BillingsPD) December 1, 2022
