BILLINGS, MT — Loved ones are sharing memories of eight members of a blended family who died Sunday night in a shooting and fire at a home on Billings’ West End. Family members identified the victims to MTN News on Tuesday as Megan Ghekiere, her children Chloe Ireland and Owen Ireland, and Landon Ghekiere and Charlotte Ghekiere.
Also killed were Megan Ghekiere’s parents, Barb and Dana Smith, and her grandmother, Evelyn Smith. The family said it chose to release the names to help the community understand the people behind the loss, not just the crime scene.
Police said the incident began around 6 p.m. at a home on White Star Circle. Officers responding to a report of a shooting heard gunfire as they arrived, and the home was engulfed in flames within minutes.
Police say disturbance led to shooting and fire at White Star Circle home
Authorities said the violence grew out of a family disturbance and was not a random attack. The suspect, who has not been identified, was found outside the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and later died, according to police.
Investigators have not yet released the names or ages of the people killed. The scene left investigators dealing with both a shooting and a fire, adding to the challenge of sorting out exactly what happened in the seconds after officers arrived.
Family members have said they are waiting for more official details while focusing on remembering the victims. The home on Billings’ West End has become the center of a case that has shaken relatives, neighbors and friends.
Landon Ghekiere remembered as a protective older brother with school plans and outdoor interests
Landon Ghekiere was 15 and was preparing to start his sophomore year at Billings Senior High School. He was also looking forward to attending the Career Center and getting his driver’s license, family members said.
He enjoyed paddleboarding and planned to wrestle at Senior High. Loved ones described him as dependable and always ready to help, whether someone needed a hand at home or assistance next door.
As a big brother, family members said Landon was patient, protective and loving. Their memories cast him as a teenager on the edge of new milestones, with school, sports and independence ahead of him.
Charlotte Ghekiere, 12, was preparing to begin seventh grade and had recently taken an interest in crocheting and golf. Her family described her as funny, precocious, adorable and just stubborn enough to make her memorable.
Charlotte, Chloe and Owen Ireland remembered for school, hobbies and one act that saved lives
Charlotte called 911 during the shooting, her family said, helping emergency responders reach the home. Loved ones called her a hero for that call, saying it showed courage in a moment of fear and confusion.
Chloe Ireland, 7, was getting ready to enter second grade at Big Sky Elementary School. Her family said she loved art, enjoyed YMCA programs and treasured her bond with Charlotte, her step-sister.
Owen Ireland, 13, was about to start eighth grade at Ben Steele Middle School. His family described him as a “Lego maniac” who loved reading, Star Wars and was starting to get involved in hurling, the Irish sport.
The children were part of a household that included siblings from different relationships and the adults who helped raise them. Family members said the mix of ages and relationships made the loss especially hard to understand.
Community funds and a vigil are planned as relatives face funeral and living expenses
Megan Ghekiere worked at Intermountain Health and was active at Faith Chapel. Family members said she loved art and painting, and she enjoyed watching football with her husband, Adam Ghekiere.
Barb Smith, 72, was a retired teacher who loved quilting and had a room in her home devoted to fabric. Dana Smith, 73, was a retired Air Force veteran who later worked for Boeing and enjoyed fishing, cars and time with his grandchildren.
Evelyn Smith, 92, had been living at an assisted living facility in Billings and was known for her big smile, spirited personality and love of candy, according to the family. Loved ones also said online memorial funds have been set up to help with expenses.
The family is planning a candlelight vigil open to the public, with details to be announced later. Relatives said they hope the community will help support Adam Ghekiere and others left carrying the emotional and financial burden of the tragedy.
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