Billings, Montana – Thirteen gunshots shattered the peace in a Billings trailer court last summer, critically injuring a woman, her son, and a family friend. The incident culminated in a recent court case where a Billings man was found guilty of firing those rounds with the intent to kill. The wounded victims, Kimberley Bryant, her then 16-year-old son Denim, and their friend managed to drive themselves to the hospital for life-saving treatment, overcoming the odds stacked against them.
During the trial, Deputy Yellowstone County Attorney Sabrina Currie emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the defendant, Darrell Colton Bryant, had made a deliberate attempt to take lives. Bryant faced six felony charges, including three counts of attempted deliberate homicide. The trial showcased the harrowing events that unfolded when Bryant, armed with a handgun he was not authorized to possess, unleashed a barrage of bullets on the victims inside the trailer home.
The jury’s deliberations, lasting approximately two and a half hours, led to Bryant’s conviction on all charges, bringing a five-day trial to a close. Throughout the proceedings, testimonies from victims, detectives, and medical staff shed light on the traumatic ordeal. Bryant’s actions not only caused physical harm but also instilled fear and uncertainty in the community.
Despite Bryant’s claims of acting out of self-preservation due to past conflicts with the victims, the prosecution painted a picture of a calculated and dangerous individual. Bryant’s disregard for the law, including possessing an illegal firearm and altering its serial number, showcased a blatant disregard for the safety of others. The defense’s attempt to justify Bryant’s actions fell short in the face of overwhelming evidence presented in court.
The aftermath of the shooting left a lasting impact on the victims and their families, highlighting the lasting trauma and consequences of gun violence. As Bryant faces the prospect of a life sentence for each count of attempted deliberate homicide, the community grapples with the ramifications of such senseless acts. The trial serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding laws to protect individuals from harm and seeking justice for those whose lives have been forever altered by violence.