Hardin Man Arrested for Setting Fire to Billings Apartment
On Saturday, May 31, 2025, at approximately 6:42 p.m., officers with the Billings Police Department responded to reports of a structure fire in the 2700 block of 4th Avenue South.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a person running from the apartment complex shortly after the fire broke out, prompting an immediate investigation.
Suspect Identified as 27-Year-Old Reese Gray
Officers determined that the individual seen fleeing the area was 27-year-old Reese Gray of Hardin. Through witness statements and evidence collected at the scene, investigators concluded that Gray had deliberately set the fire before escaping on foot.
No Human Injuries, But Pet Lost
Thankfully, no residents were injured in the blaze. However, responders did discover that a cat had died inside the apartment.
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Suspect Apprehended Nearby and Charged
Gray was located by officers several blocks away from the scene of the fire and taken into custody without further incident. He has been charged with Arson, two counts of Criminal Endangerment, and Aggravated Animal Cruelty. He has since been remanded into the Yellowstone County Detention Facility (YCDF).
Multiple Agencies Aided in Response
The Billings Police Department extended its appreciation to the supporting emergency response teams who assisted in managing the incident. Those agencies included the Billings Fire Department, American Medical Response (AMR), and the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
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Gallery Credit: Nick Northern