Crime Watch

Person of interest arrested in Billings drive-by shooting

Posted: Aug 9, 2012 5:04 PM by Angela Douglas - Q2 News
Updated: Aug 9, 2012 5:04 PM

BILLINGS - Billings police are investigating a drive-by shooting in the downtown Billings area last night.

It is believed that there was an exchange of gunfire between someone in the vehicle and someone in the house, but until the shell casings are analyzed that remains unconfirmed.

Police arrived on scene at 434 and a half Lewis Avenue shortly before 11 p.m. when residents in the area reported hearing up to nine gunshots fired off in a residential neighborhood.

The house located at that address was determined the target of the gunfire.

Witnesses also reported seeing a two-toned blue and gray Subaru leaving the area.

Authorities were able to locate that vehicle and arrested Franklyn Hammontree, 39, on the charges of driving while under the influence, probation violation and driving without a license.

Hammontree has not been charged with anything in connection to the shooting, but he is a person of interest.

He is currently being held in the Yellowstone County Detention Facility.

No injuries were reported.