Nicholas Olson-Hartley, Katie Olson-Hartley Cause Of Death: Family of Four Discovered Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide in Kalispell
In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the Kalispell community, authorities discovered a family of four dead on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in what investigators believe was a murder-suicide. The Kalispell Police Department responded to a 911 call made by a man later identified as 33-year-old Nicholas Olson-Hartley. The call, which came in at 5:52 a.m., was categorized as a mental health crisis after the caller made several alarming remarks before abruptly hanging up .
Investigation Underway
Police officers were dispatched to the residence located at 127 Werner Peak Trail in Kalispell. Upon their arrival, officers attempted to make contact with those inside the home but received no response. After assessing the scene and identifying signs that something was seriously wrong, law enforcement made the decision to forcibly enter the home. Once inside the residence, officers were met with a grim scene. The bodies of Nicholas Olson-Hartley and his wife, 27-year-old Katie Olson-Hartley, were discovered with what appeared to be fatal gunshot wounds .
Fatalities and Injuries
As police continued to secure and clear the home, they tragically found the couple’s two young children—a 6-year-old and a 7-month-old—also dead from gunshot injuries. According to police, the initial findings of the investigation suggest that Nicholas Olson-Hartley fatally shot his wife and children before calling 911 and then taking his own life .
Community Impact
The Kalispell Police Department expressed deep sorrow over the incident, releasing a public statement extending condolences to the family and community affected by the tragedy. “The Kalispell Police Department mourns with the family that is suffering from this senseless tragedy,” a department spokesperson said. The department also noted that officers involved in responding to the scene would be provided with mental health support and resources to help them process the traumatic event .
Investigation Update
The family lived in a quiet residential neighborhood, and the shocking nature of the case has left neighbors and community members stunned. Many are grappling with how such a tragedy could unfold in their midst. Those who knew the Olson-Hartleys described them as a seemingly typical family, and no public records indicate prior police activity or domestic issues at the address .
Conclusion
This devastating event underscores the growing concern over mental health crises and the potential consequences when warning signs go unnoticed or unaddressed.
The investigation remains active, and detectives are continuing to collect evidence and conduct interviews. While authorities have stated that no outside individuals are suspected of being involved, the final report will aim to provide a full account of the circumstances surrounding the deaths
