UPDATE - three suspects arrested - click here
Law enforcement agencies are investigating the shooting deaths of two men that happened on Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Box Elder.
Hill County Sheriff Jamie Ross says that deputies responded to a reports of shots fired in the parking lot of D&L Bar at about 1:30 a.m. Deputies found two men had been shot at the gas pumps.
Both victims were taken to a medical facility in private vehicles. The ambulance met one of the vehicles in Laredo. The other vehicle was met by Tribal Police who rendered aid and transferred him to an ambulance.
The two men have been identified as Darin Bernard Caplette, 41 years old; and Thomas Roderick Yallup, 42. Both were residents of the Rocky Boy Reservation.
Sheriff Ross said, “The initial information indicates that this was a targeted assault directed at these two men and we don’t have any evidence currently that would indicate a risk to the public at large. Expect to see a large law enforcement presence in the Box Elder area for a considerable time. We have many crime scenes to process and witness to interview.”
There is no word at this point on whether anyone has been identified as a suspect.
Box Elder resident Misty Healy said, “The one thing is that we don't really lock our doors around here, but now we're going to have to. It's devastating and very scary right now, especially for our community. And with the loss of two people from our community, we're all going to feel that.”
The bodies will be sent to the Montana State Crime Lab for autopsy.
On Thursday evening, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement said in a news release: "Rocky Boy Police can say, with confidence, there is currently no danger to the public, with persons of interest being questioned by County, State & Federal Investigators present."
Anyone with information about the shootings is asked to call 406-265-2512.
Agencies assisting with the response include the Chouteau County Sheriff's Office, the Cascade County Sheriff's Office, Tribal Police, and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
We will update you if we get more information.
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