
Great Falls native and oral surgeon turned detective, Dr. Clem C. Pellett, will present his gripping true crime story at the Great Falls Public Library on Thursday, August 7, at 5:30 PM.
The free event, co-hosted by Cassiopeia Books, will include a presentation, Q&A, and book signing.
Pellett’s book, Murder on Montana’s Hi-Line, tells the story of his grandfather’s 1951 murder during a blizzard by a teenage hitchhiker who confessed, was sentenced to hang twice, but never executed—and then vanished for 40 years as Montana’s longest absconder. “I’m honored to share my story with the Great Falls community,” said Pellett. “It’s a story about the power of persistence, the mystery of history, and the unexpected ways our lives connect.”
What to Expect:
Guests will enjoy an engaging presentation, followed by a Q&A and book signing. Pellett will share how he tracked down his grandfather’s killer, who lived in plain sight despite being the longest absconder in Montana’s history.
Why It Matters:
This event is more than a book signing—it’s a chance to explore family legacies, unsolved crimes, and the passion behind personal discovery. Attendees will gain a unique look at the true story soon to be brought to life in the upcoming movie Pellett, filmed locally in Great Falls and Shelby and set for release later this year
For more information, contact Jake Sorich at jsorich@greatfallslibrary.org or 406-453-0349 ex. 220.