Q2 Top Stories and Weather for 2-19-25
Off-duty deputy suffered self-inflicted gunshot wound after striking Billings house
BILLINGS — The off-duty Yellowstone County sheriff's deputy who struck a house in the Billings Heights on Saturday before fleeing the scene suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound shortly after, according to the sheriff.
The sheriff identified the deputy as Jason Thompson, a 5-year veteran of the agency.
The Montana Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
The Billings Police Department is investigating the shooting.
Local Forest Service jobs cut by DOGE
RED LODGE — An estimated 35,000 U.S. Forest Service employees are losing their jobs as the president continues to push for government spending cuts.
That includes 360 workers in Montana with at least nine in Red Lodge.
The national business representative for federal employees says he is concerned that as more cuts happen more impact will be seen by all who enjoy the great outdoors.
That includes more trail closures and unmitigated wildfires.
Snow removal gear selling out amidst cold blast
BILLINGS — Frigid cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills linger on as snow moves out of the area.
Local businesses like Ace Hardware are seeing a major uptick in snow removal gear purchases.
Ace Hardware staff say they get a couple deliveries per week and they will continually restock cold weather merchandise as demand continues to be high.
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