GFPD Shooting Investigation - Arrest Made 2/20/2024

February 20, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shooting Investigation - Arrest Made

GREAT FALLS, Montana – Shortly after 1:00 AM on February 20, 2024 the City of Great Falls / Cascade County 911 Center received a call reporting a male had been shot at a business in the 1900 block of 10th Ave S. Great Falls Police Department (GFPD), Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR), and Great Falls Emergency Services (GFES) were dispatched.

GFPD officers located a male gunshot victim and learned the 24 year-old Great Falls resident was an employee of the business, and working at the time of the shooting. The victim was transported to Benefis Emergency Department, by GFES, and is now listed in stable condition. It was reported a group of drive-thru customers was refused service for being unruly with staff.

The gunshot victim knew the group of customers, and was attempting to address their concerns outside in the parking lot when a firearm was brandished and used to shoot the victim. The investigation led GFPD officers and detectives to a residence in the 1600 block of 9th Ave S.

The GFPD High Risk Unit (HRU), comprised of GFPD officers and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies, responded to the residence and made contact with several individuals inside the home. The HRU executed a Search Warrant on the home, utilizing standard SWAT techniques such as, distraction devices and chemical irritants, as they were clearing the home.

Peyton Arthur Vaughn, a 21 year-old Great Falls resident has been arrested and charged with one count of Felony Assault with a Weapon; he has been remanded to the Cascade County Detention Center. The GFPD is not seeking any other suspects at this time and the scene is clear of law enforcement personnel.

We are always very appreciative for the community’s support and patience, especially during stressful incidents such as this.

MEDIA CONTACT: Doug Mahlum, Lt 406-455-8522