Southwestern Montana News Reflects On Growth, Community Impact In 2025

In November of 2019, Southwestern Montana News was launched with a simple mission: to provide timely, accurate reporting on stories impacting Dillon and the surrounding communities—stories that were often going unreported or delayed for days or even weeks.

The decision to leave a full-time job and start an independent online news outlet was not an easy one, but it was driven by a growing need for faster access to local information. From breaking news and public safety incidents to sports and community events, the goal was to keep residents informed in real time.

In the early years, Southwestern Montana News expanded beyond written reporting by incorporating video coverage and livestreaming of sports and community events, allowing people to stay connected even when they couldn’t attend in person. As the outlet grew, so did its understanding of what readers wanted most.

Now entering its sixth year, Southwestern Montana News has undergone significant changes. Livestreaming was phased out as audience preferences shifted, and the decision was made to close the downtown office and operate fully mobile. These changes allowed the outlet to respond more quickly to breaking news and better serve the community.

Looking back, 2025 marked the most successful year to date.

During the past year, Southwestern Montana News reached more than 250,000 readers on its website. In addition, videos shared on Facebook were viewed over 3 million times, reflecting strong engagement from the community across multiple platforms.

As the outlet looks ahead to 2026, Southwestern Montana News remains committed to independent journalism and community-focused reporting. Local businesses also continue to play a vital role in supporting the outlet, with advertising opportunities starting at $35 per month—helping sustain locally owned media in Beaverhead County.

Top 10 Most-Read Southwestern Montana News Stories of 2025

1. Teen dies from self-inflicted gunshot wound near Trapper Creek

2. Man found dead after vehicle discovered in water near Wisdom

3. Child’s death in Lima deemed homicide; one arrested

4. UM Western student charged in fatal crash that killed 7-year-old Dillon boy

5. Minor fatally injured in vehicle vs. bicycle collision in Dillon

6. Tragic accident at Maverick Mountain; skier dies after collision with tree

7. First responders on scene of semi-truck accident on MT-41 near Twin Bridges

8. Fatal motorcycle crash on I-90 west near mile marker 233

9. Chase on I-15 near Lima ends with disabling crash, arrest of female driver

10. Fatal single-vehicle crash on I-15 near mile marker 70

As Southwestern Montana News moves into the new year, the focus remains unchanged: serve the community, report the facts, and ensure local stories are told—accurately and on time.