On January 7th, community members residing in the Skyline area may have observed an increased police presence near the Countryside Village mobile home park, located at 3805 7th St NE. Law enforcement officers were engaged in the process of apprehending an individual who was believed to be armed. Access to Countryside Village was restricted at the intersection of 36th Ave NE and 7th St NE.
The situation commenced at approximately 11:15 AM when a complaint was reported to the 911 Center. Officers determined that a resident within a unit of Countryside Village appeared to be wearing body armor and had allegedly threatened an individual with a rifle. Further investigation revealed that the suspect had exhibited threatening behaviors in the recent past, which escalated concerns within the community.
At 1:50 PM, the Central Montana Regional High-Risk Unit was deployed. This unit consists of officers from the Great Falls Police Department and deputies from the Cascade County Sheriff/Coroner’s Office. The incident concluded at approximately 2:50 PM when the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Justin Timothy Porter, surrendered without incident and was taken into custody, with no reported injuries.
Given the proximity to nearby schools and the time of day, school bus scheduling was intentionally disrupted to ensure students returning home from school were not at risk. Additionally, several nearby residents voluntarily evacuated, with police assistance until the incident was resolved.
Porter was charged in Cascade County District Court with Assault with a Weapon (Felony), and Criminal Endangerment (Felony).
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
