In the spring of 2019, the life of a vibrant and loving 15-year-old female named Tionna Rowland, a proud descendant of Chief Pretty Eagle and Chief Dull Knife of the Cheyenne Nation, was tragically cut short. On May 11, 2019, in Billings, Montana, an event unfolded that would end in devastating loss. Tionna, who was known for her outgoing personality and a smile that always graced her face, was at a friend's house with other teenagers.
She was a student who enjoyed playing basketball, longboarding, and swimming at the local YMCA with her mother and brothers.
The joyful atmosphere of a youthful gathering turned to one of horror in an instant. A 15-year-old boy at the residence was handling a rifle that had a jammed bullet. While attempting to dislodge the stuck round, the firearm discharged accidentally, and the bullet struck Tionna in the head. The friend who owned the rifle heard the gunshot and discovered the boy crying and saying that Tionna had been shot. The two boys then ran from the home to find help from two women who were outside at the time. Emergency services were called, but Tionna's injuries were fatal.
In the aftermath of the tragic incident, the community mourned the loss of a young woman who had dreams of becoming a veterinarian and planned to volunteer at an animal shelter because of her deep love for animals. Known for her "fierce" hugs and her willingness to help her peers with their schoolwork, her absence was deeply felt. The investigation into her death led to legal consequences for the individual responsible.
Months later, in November 2019, the 15-year-old boy who fired the rifle was charged with negligent homicide in juvenile court. According to the Deputy Yellowstone County Attorney, no one else was expected to be charged in connection with the accidental shooting. The case highlighted the tragic consequences of mishandling firearms and left a family and community to grieve the sudden and senseless loss of a promising young life.
