Nearly Six-Hour Standoff Ends Peacefully In Beaverhead County
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BEAVERHEAD COUNTY, MT – On May 16, 2025, at approximately 5:59 PM, the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a mental health crisis involving an adult male.
The caller stated that the individual had made threats to harm others and himself. He reportedly threatened two people with a fire poker before retrieving a firearm as they left the residence for safety. After they departed, the man obtained additional firearms, barricaded himself inside a room, and cut phone lines, cutting off communication with law enforcement.
It was later revealed that the male had training in long-distance shooting and owned rifles capable of such use. Responding agencies included the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office, Dillon Police Department, Montana Highway Patrol, Forest Service Law Enforcement, BLM Law Enforcement, and Fish and Game. The area was secured, neighboring residences evacuated, and an ambulance was on standby. Law enforcement utilized drones to maintain visual contact with the male through open windows.
Butte-Silver Bow County SWAT was called in and arrived quickly, deploying their armored vehicle to approach the residence. Using a loudspeaker, SWAT issued commands for the male to exit with his hands raised. He complied and was safely taken into custody before being transported to an emergency room for mental health treatment.
Upon clearing the residence, authorities discovered the male had access to four firearms, three of which were loaded and ready for use. The entire standoff lasted nearly six hours and concluded peacefully without injury to anyone involved.
The Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to all participating agencies and community members. Their cooperation was vital in ensuring a peaceful resolution and the safety of the community.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that mental health challenges are a serious issue, and anyone in need of help is encouraged to reach out to law enforcement or mental health professionals for support.
