17-year-old in custody after Christmas homicide
Polson Police responded to two shooting incidents in the past week. (Berl Tiskus/Leader)
Several law enforcement agencies responded to a shooting early Christmas morning in the housing complex at 1002 4th Street West in Polson that resulted in the death of a 31-year-old Pablo man.
According to a press release from the Lake County Sheriff, dispatchers “took multiple calls” at approximately 3:30 a.m. Dec. 25. Officers from the Polson Police Department, Lake County Sheriff and Flathead Tribal Police responded and found that Sheldon Fisher had been shot and killed during a disturbance involving several people. No other injuries were reported.
Polson Police Chief George Simpson reports that arrests were made last Wednesday, “following a swift and coordinated effort by local and tribal authorities.”
County Attorney James Lapotka confirmed that he expects to charge the 17-year-old suspect in District Court later this week with his arraignment next week.
Simpson said a few other people were taken into investigative custody, but later released without charges. The Polson Police Department continues to actively investigate the case, and he urges anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Detective Cody Doyle at 406-883-7301 or cdoyle@cityofpolson.com.
“On behalf of the Polson Police Department, I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Sheldon Fisher during this unimaginable time,” said Simpson. “This senseless act of violence, occurring on a day meant for peace and togetherness, has deeply shaken our community.”
He also expressed his appreciation for “the outstanding collaboration between the agencies involved in this investigation,” including the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Flathead Tribal Police, Montana Highway Patrol, Ronan and St. Ignatius police departments, their respective dispatch and first responder services, and the Lake County Attorney’s Office, “who worked tirelessly alongside our officers to ensure justice was served and our community remained safe.”
“Their professionalism and dedication during the holiday season – stepping away from their families to protect and serve – is a testament to the strength of our law enforcement team in the Mission Valley,” he said.