Over 400 Butte Ballots Flagged for Rejection Due to Missing Birth Year Information

BUTTE — Election officials in Butte-Silver Bow are reporting that over 400 mail-in ballots have been initially rejected during the current election cycle. The primary cause of the flagged ballots is a missing or incorrect birth year on the return envelope, a requirement newly mandated by Montana state law.

The change stems from House Bill 719, which went into effect during the 2025 municipal elections. The law now requires all mail-in voters to provide their year of birth in addition to their signature on the ballot envelope to verify their identity.

While intended as a security measure, election administrators across the state have noted that the new requirement has led to a significant spike in rejection rates compared to previous years.

Butte is not alone in this challenge. Other major Montana counties, including Yellowstone and Missoula, have reported hundreds of rejected ballots for the same reason.

Fortunately, a rejected ballot does not mean the vote is lost. Montana law requires election offices to contact affected voters by mail, phone, or email to "cure" their ballots.

Voters who are notified of a discrepancy can resolve the issue by filling out a verification form or requesting a new ballot. Local officials urge residents to double-check their envelopes for both a signature and a birth year before mailing them to ensure their voices are heard.

Residents can also track the status of their ballots through the Montana Secretary of State's online voter portal.

Five Arrested Following Overnight Vandalism Spree in Billings Heights

BILLINGS — Residents in Billings Heights woke up Wednesday morning to shattered glass, damaged vehicles, and a heavy police presence after authorities say a group went on a destructive overnight vandalism spree through several neighborhood streets.

According to Billings Police, officers responded to reports of property damage around 1:45 a.m. Investigators say five individuals were taken into custody in connection with the case, including 21-year-old Donovan Elkboy and four juveniles ranging in age from 11 to 16 years old.

Authorities allege the group moved through residential areas damaging parked vehicles and other property throughout the neighborhood. Witnesses reported hearing loud noises, yelling, and glass breaking during the overnight hours.

Surveillance cameras from nearby homes reportedly captured footage of objects being thrown at vehicles parked along the streets. Several cars sustained broken windshields, smashed windows, damaged mirrors, and dents to body panels.

Residents spent much of Wednesday morning cleaning debris from sidewalks, driveways, and roadways. Some homeowners described the incident as shocking for an area they normally consider quiet and family-oriented.

Vehicle repair costs are expected to be substantial. Local property owners noted that replacement parts and labor for modern vehicles can quickly add up, especially for newer trucks and SUVs equipped with advanced mirror and safety systems.

Police continue to review evidence and assess the total amount of damage tied to the case. The adult suspect remains in custody while the juveniles are being handled through the appropriate youth supervision process.

82-Year-Old Man Killed in Officer-Involved Shooting in Butte

BUTTE — Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting that left an 82-year-old man dead earlier this week following a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in Butte.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched to the home after receiving reports of a domestic-related incident that required immediate police response. Specific details regarding the original call have not yet been publicly released.

Officials say the situation escalated shortly after officers arrived at the residence. During the encounter, at least one officer discharged a firearm. The 82-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators have not confirmed whether the man was armed or what events directly led to the use of deadly force. Authorities also have not released information regarding how many officers were involved or how long the incident lasted before shots were fired.

The investigation is now being handled by an outside agency to ensure an independent review of the incident. Officials say investigators are expected to examine body camera footage, collect evidence from the scene, and conduct interviews with officers and potential witnesses.

Law enforcement officials noted that domestic disturbance calls are often among the most unpredictable and high-risk situations officers encounter, frequently involving emotionally charged circumstances that can change rapidly.

Authorities have not indicated whether those factors contributed to the events leading up to the shooting, but officials say every aspect of the encounter will be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

News of the incident spread quickly throughout the Butte community, where officer-involved shootings tend to receive significant public attention. With limited details currently available, many residents are awaiting further information regarding what occurred inside the home.

Officials are asking the public to allow investigators time to complete the review process before drawing conclusions. Authorities say additional information will be released as facts are confirmed and the investigation progresses.