HELENA — An East Helena man was sentenced after authorities said he confronted a high school student with a gun near East Helena High School.
According to a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Montana, Ryan Christopher Williams, 47, was sentenced to five years of probation and 80 hours of community service. He had pleaded guilty in February 2026 to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone.
The release said the case stemmed from a May 1, 2025 encounter near the school. Prosecutors said Williams followed a student who was heading to class, blocked the student's vehicle near the high school and pulled a gun during the confrontation.
The student made it to school and told staff what happened. The school then contacted law enforcement.
Investigators later found a vehicle matching the student's description on the 2700 block of Bandera Drive and connected it to Williams. Authorities said Williams acknowledged stopping the student and being armed, but denied pointing the gun.
Deputies also found a gun on his property that investigators said matched the student's description. U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris handled the case.Â
Â
Originally published on montanarightnow.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.
Information from the News and our advertisers (Want to add your business to this to this feed?)
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request.
Sign up to receive notifications when a new Columbia Gorge News e-Edition is published.
Would you like to receive our news updates? Signup today!
Receive weekly updates on obituaries and death notices.
Oregon Capital Press presented by Columbia Gorge News
Receive updates on upcoming promotions and special sections.
Receive weekly updates on local sports news.
Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos.
Sorry, an error occurred.
Already Subscribed!
Cancel anytime
Thank you .
Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in.
Check your email for details.
Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password.
An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account.
No promotional rates found.
Secure & Encrypted
Thank you.
Your gift purchase was successful! Your purchase was successful, and you are now logged in.
| Rate: | |
| Begins: | |
| Transaction ID: |
A receipt was sent to your email.
Commented