On Sunday, May 18, 2025, the Great Falls community was shaken by a tragic event that led to the untimely death of Sarah Bailey, a beloved local business owner. Bailey, a 50-year-old woman, was involved in a violent altercation with 31-year-old Kelsey Jo Staigmiller, who now faces multiple felony charges in connection with the incident. The shocking sequence of events has left friends, family, and community members reeling, and the authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bailey’s death.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:57 p.m. on May 18, when the Great Falls Police Department received reports of a disturbance at the Roberts Apartments on 6th Street South. Witnesses described Staigmiller, the suspect, causing a commotion and being locked out of the building. The situation quickly escalated, and Staigmiller unlawfully entered a nearby pickup truck driven by Sarah Bailey. Once inside the vehicle, an altercation ensued between the two women. The confrontation turned violent, and the vehicle was driven away in a highly dangerous and erratic manner, leaving a trail of confusion and chaos.
As the altercation continued, Bailey sustained severe injuries during the struggle, which ultimately led to her death. Her body was discovered shortly after the incident near the intersection of 5th Street North and 1st Avenue North in Great Falls. Authorities were quick to respond to the scene, but tragically, it was too late for Bailey. The entire community was left stunned by the brutality of the crime, and many were left asking questions about what led to such a devastating turn of events.
After the altercation, Staigmiller fled the scene in Bailey’s vehicle, igniting a manhunt by local authorities. The pursuit of Staigmiller took several hours, but she was eventually located near Bonner, Montana, by deputies from the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office. Staigmiller was reportedly uncooperative during her arrest, which led to the use of less-lethal means to subdue her. She was taken into custody and subsequently booked into the Missoula County Detention Center on a $500,000 bond. Staigmiller faces charges of felony robbery, theft, and burglary in connection with the incident. However, law enforcement officials have indicated that further charges could be forthcoming, pending the results of an autopsy and additional investigation.
As the community of Great Falls grapples with the loss of Sarah Bailey, tributes and messages of remembrance have poured in from friends, family, and business associates. Bailey was a well-known and respected figure in the area, having owned Sparrows and Arrows, a popular tattoo shop located at 524 Central Avenue. Her niece, Allison Miller, shared an emotional tribute to her late aunt, recalling her as a wonderful and compassionate person who was loved by everyone who knew her. Miller spoke about her aunt’s love for birds, particularly flamingos, and her passion for gardening. She also mentioned how deeply Bailey loved her craft and her clients, noting that both her family and the community would always remember her dedication to her work.
“Her love for her craft and her clients will always be remembered both in my family and in the community that also loved her,” Miller said in the tribute. The sentiment has been echoed by many others in the community who have described Bailey as someone who brought joy and kindness wherever she went. The loss of such a vibrant and passionate individual has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
As the Great Falls Police Department continues to investigate the incident, they have urged anyone with information to come forward. Detective Travis Burrow, who is overseeing the case, has asked members of the public who may have witnessed the events leading up to Bailey’s death or have any information related to the case to contact him at (406) 455-8505. Authorities are working diligently to piece together the events of that fateful day, but as of now, there is no evidence to suggest that Bailey and Staigmiller knew each other prior to the incident.
The Great Falls community has expressed an outpouring of support for Bailey’s family, friends, and the wider community. The incident has raised concerns about safety and violence, and many are reflecting on the need for greater awareness and prevention of similar tragedies. Local organizations have come forward to offer support, and memorial services for Bailey are expected to be held in the coming days.
This tragic incident has not only shattered the lives of those closest to Sarah Bailey, but it has also left an indelible mark on the community of Great Falls. The loss of such a cherished figure is a stark reminder of the vulnerability that exists in everyday life and the importance of coming together to support one another in times of hardship.
As the legal process unfolds, the community remains focused on remembering Sarah Bailey for the positive impact she had on everyone around her. Her legacy will live on in the memories of those who knew her and in the work she poured her heart into. Though her life was tragically cut short, Sarah Bailey’s influence on her community will never be forgotten.
For now, the people of Great Falls, Montana, will continue to hold their loved ones close and honor the memory of a woman who left a lasting impact on the lives of those she touched. As authorities continue their investigation, the community waits for justice to be served and for the healing process to begin. The loss of Sarah Bailey is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life, but it is also a reminder of the importance of compassion, love, and support in the face of tragedy.
The memory of Sarah Bailey will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to lead with kindness, strength, and dedication. As the community rallies together, they will find solace in the bonds they share and the strength they draw from one another.
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