FBI Meth Burn at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Montana Forces Evacuation and Hospitalizes 14 Employees

Billings, Montana – The Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Billings, Montana, faced an unprecedented crisis when the FBI burned two pounds of methamphetamine inside the facility, causing an immediate evacuation of 75 dogs and cats and sending 14 employees to the hospital due to smoke inhalation.

This alarming incident, involving the disposal of dangerous narcotics in a facility meant for animal care, has sparked concern among staff and local residents, highlighting issues surrounding safety protocols and communication between federal agencies and community organizations.

An Unexpected Disposal Leads to Emergency Evacuation

Normally, the shelter’s incinerator is designated for disposing of euthanized animals and carcasses gathered by the city’s animal control division. However, on this occasion, FBI agents used the incinerator to burn seized methamphetamine without notifying the shelter’s staff. According to Triniti Halverson, Executive Director of Yellowstone Valley Animal Center, the staff was caught completely off guard.

“I can firmly and confidently say that, as the Executive Director, I did not know that they were disposing of extremely dangerous narcotics onsite,” said Halverson. “When the smoke started pouring out of one of our feline isolation rooms, I instructed staff to put on COVID masks and begin evacuating the animals.”

The smoke infiltrated several areas of the animal center, prompting an immediate rescue and evacuation of the animals. Those most exposed, especially four litters of kittens isolated in a smoke-filled room, are now under strict veterinary observation to monitor potential health impacts.

Health Impacts and Hospitalization of Shelter Employees

The hazardous smoke exposure affected 14 shelter employees who were rushed to the local hospital. While at the hospital, the employees learned about the true nature of the smoke after a city official informed them that they had inhaled methamphetamine particles. The exposure required intensive treatment involving approximately three hours in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to mitigate the effects of the smoke.

FBI agents involved were also sent to the hospital for evaluation and treatment by their superiors. Billings Assistant City Administrator Kevin Iffland explained the incident’s cause, saying that a negative pressure system unexpectedly pulled smoke into the building. A fan designed to reverse this airflow and prevent smoke ingress was unavailable at the time.

Consequences and Community Impact

• The Yellowstone Valley Animal Center must now undergo a decontamination period lasting two weeks to one month.
• The shelter has been displaced, leading to interruptions in their animal care services.
• Alternative drop-off locations for donations have been arranged, and monetary donations are being accepted to support the shelter during this period.

Halverson expressed the emotional and operational toll on the shelter’s staff and volunteers:

“We are displaced, lost, and homeless. For many of us — staff, volunteers, and fosters — YVAS is our safe space. Our sanctuary to do what we do best: care for the animals in our community. Sending away more than 20 people needing services in the last 24 hours has completely gutted us. We WANT to help and in the same breath, we NEED help.”

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The incident also stirred frustration among Billings residents. One local, Jay Ettlemen, questioned the decision to incinerate narcotics so close to a populated area:

“Why the hell are they destroying drugs inside the city limits? There’s so many other places in the middle of nowhere.”

Looking Forward: Safety and Accountability

This incident raises serious questions about the communication and safety procedures between federal law enforcement and local community facilities. Proper notification and coordination might have prevented the health risks faced by employees and animals alike.

For more details about the event and ongoing updates, visit the original report at Brobible’s coverage.

Key Facts at a Glance:

• FBI burned two pounds of methamphetamine at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter.
• 75 animals were evacuated from the facility.
• 14 employees required emergency medical treatment after smoke inhalation.
• Smoke inhalation treatments involved the use of hyperbaric oxygen chambers.
• Decontamination of the shelter will take 2 to 4 weeks.
• Community support through donations is crucial to help the displaced shelter.

What do you think about this incident? Have you ever supported animal shelters impacted by unexpected events? Share your thoughts in the comments below!