Slain Girl Hailed as Hero After 8 Relatives Killed in Montana Home

A horrific shooting and fire at a family home in Montana has left eight people dead, including four children, with a 7-year-old girl being hailed as a hero for her actions during the attack.

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First and foremost, the Billings Police Department extends our deepest condolences to everyone affected by this awful tragedy.

Authorities said the shooter, 44-year-old Alan Smith, killed eight of his relatives as they gathered for Sunday dinner at a home outside Billings. The victims spanned four generations, from a great-grandmother in her 90s to the 7-year-old girl. Smith's parents, who were also killed, had reportedly asked him to move out of their home, but he returned and opened fire.

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Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted during this incredibly difficult time.

Police arrived at the scene to the sound of gunshots and found the house engulfed in flames. Investigators confirmed eight victims and that the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation has been complicated by the fire that destroyed the house down to its foundation.

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The one thing we do know is that Charlotte was the hero.

Among the deceased were 7-year-old Chloe Ireland and her 13-year-old brother Owen Ireland, whose father, Brad Ireland, identified them and his former wife, Megan Ghekiere, as victims. "The one thing we do know is that Charlotte was the hero," said Jennifer Mercer, a neighbor and family friend who set up an online fundraiser. "Charlotte called 911 and she tried to save her family. And that's something the family does want out there."

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Charlotte called 911 and she tried to save her family. And that's something the family does want out there.