On a tragic Friday evening in Bozeman, Montana, the life of 53-year-old Joe Knarr, a White/Caucasian male, was brought to a shocking and violent end. On March 11, 2016, Gallatin County Sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 hang-up call that originated from Knarr's residence. Upon their arrival at the home located east of Bozeman, they were met with a grim and heartbreaking scene.
After forcing entry into the locked house, deputies discovered the bodies of Joe Knarr and his wife, Jennifer Knarr. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. A further search of the home led to the discovery of their infant son, Daniel, who had also been shot. Despite immediate attempts at resuscitation by a volunteer firefighter and the deputies, the child could not be saved.
The subsequent investigation by the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office concluded that the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide.
Evidence indicated that Jennifer Knarr, who was also a game warden with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks like her husband, was the perpetrator. Investigators believe she shot her husband, Joe, and their young son before turning the gun on herself. Family members indicated that Jennifer had been struggling with postpartum depression.
The incident claimed the lives of Joe Knarr and his infant son, Daniel. The case was subsequently closed as the primary suspect, Jennifer Knarr, was also deceased. No arrests were made as the investigation determined she acted alone in the tragic event that shook the Bozeman community. Joe Knarr was remembered as a dedicated game warden and a loving father.
