A tragic incident in Kalispell, Montana has left a community in shock after a family of four was found dead inside their home in what police believe was a murder-suicide.
At 5:52 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, officers with the Kalispell Police Department responded to a distressing 911 call from 33-year-old Nicholas Olson-Hartley. Authorities say the caller made a series of deeply concerning statements before abruptly hanging up.
When police arrived at the family’s residence on Werner Peak Trail, they were unable to reach anyone inside. After noticing signs of trouble, officers forced their way in—only to uncover a devastating scene.
Inside the home, police found Nicholas Olson-Hartley and his 27-year-old wife, Katie Olson-Hartley, both dead from what appeared to be gunshot wounds. During a further search of the home, officers also discovered the couple’s two children—a 6-year-old and a 7-month-old—both fatally shot.
Detectives spent the day gathering evidence and speaking with people who knew the family. Based on their findings, police now believe that Nicholas Olson-Hartley shot and killed his wife and children, then took his own life shortly after calling 911.
“After collecting evidence throughout the day and interviewing numerous people, we believe this tragic event to be the result of a murder-suicide,” the Kalispell Police Department said in a statement. “It appears Nicholas Olson-Hartley took the lives of his young family before calling 911. After making the phone call to dispatch, he took his own life.”
While investigators have not yet released a motive, police confirmed the 911 call came in as a mental health-related emergency. They have not said whether Olson-Hartley had a history of mental illness.
Autopsies will be conducted by the Montana State Crime Lab to determine the official cause and time of death. The case remains under active investigation.
In the meantime, Kalispell Police say they are prioritizing the mental health and well-being of the officers who responded to the heartbreaking scene.
“KPD is making all resources available for our officers to ensure they can process this and move forward in a healthy way to continue to serve the Kalispell community,” the department added. “The Kalispell Police Department mourns with the family that is suffering from this senseless tragedy.”
Neighbors described the Olson-Hartleys as quiet and private. The neighborhood, known for being peaceful and family-friendly, has been left reeling in the wake of the incident.
As the community grieves, officials are reminding anyone in crisis that help is always available. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is open 24/7 at 988 for anyone struggling or in need of support.