Columbia Falls man identified in fatal Dawn Drive shooting

COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. - Authorities have identified the man who died in a shooting on Dawn Drive in Columbia Falls last week.

According to a Facebook post from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, the deceased was identified as Donald J. Schwindt, 59, of Columbia Falls. The sheriff’s office said the Flathead County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identification following an autopsy completed at the Montana State Crime Lab in Missoula.

The shooting happened shortly after 7 a.m. on May 11, when deputies responded to reports of gunfire on Dawn Drive.

As previously reported, investigators said two individuals exchanged gunfire during the incident. Both people suffered gunshot wounds, and one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The second individual was injured.

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active. Officials have not released additional information about what led up to the shooting.

In an earlier statement, the sheriff’s office said there is no known threat to the public and the scene was secured shortly after deputies arrived.