Fatal East Helena Crash After Pursuit Kills Resident, Injures Another
A pursuit in East Helena ended when a vehicle drove into a home, killing a 69 year old woman and injuring a 76 year old man. The incident raises local concerns about public safety, pursuit policy, and the legal process that will follow in Lewis and Clark County.
A high speed police pursuit on the night of November 22, 2025, culminated in a vehicle crashing into a residence in East Helena, killing one occupant and injuring another. Montana Highway Patrol troopers had attempted a traffic stop for a suspected DUI after encountering the vehicle. The car initially stopped but then fled south on Lake Helena Drive before failing to negotiate the T intersection at Lake Helena Drive and East Old Highway 12. The vehicle drove through a fence and into a house, entering a bedroom and striking two occupants.
A 69 year old woman was transported to hospital and later died from her injuries. She was subsequently identified as Terry Lamping. A 76 year old man was hospitalized with injuries from the impact and remained under medical care. The driver was apprehended at the scene, taken for medical treatment, and later appeared in Lewis and Clark County Justice Court. Court filings and local reporting identified the driver as William Bart Stuart, 52, of Helena. Stuart faces felony counts that include vehicular homicide while under the influence, felony criminal endangerment, and felony fleeing or eluding a peace officer causing serious bodily injury or death. Bail was set at 500,000 dollars and an arraignment was scheduled in district court. Court documents cited by reporting indicated that a passenger later told law enforcement the driver had consumed many alcoholic beverages that night.
The Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office assisted the Montana Highway Patrol with the investigation. The state patrol noted the inherent risks and existing policies that govern pursuits as the case proceeds. Local law enforcement and prosecutors will continue to develop charges and evidence records as the criminal process moves forward.
For residents of East Helena and Lewis and Clark County, the crash brings immediate concerns about safety on area roads and the vulnerability of homes near major intersections. The collision has prompted neighborhood grief and calls for clear information from authorities as investigations and court actions continue. Court schedules and further filings will determine the legal trajectory of the case as the community seeks answers and recovery.
