Ryan William Eakin, 20, was fatally shot in Helena, Montana, on July 7, 2016. The shooting occurred in a parking lot near Montana and Bozeman streets. A Capital High School graduate taking business classes at Helena College of Technology, Eakin was described as artistically talented and outdoors-minded; he was an Eagle Scout who built a raptor rehabilitation house for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Kroll-McLaughlin allegedly pistol-whipped the third individual, and during that assault the firearm discharged and the bullet struck and killed Eakin. Kroll-McLaughlin was arrested and charged with deliberate homicide under the felony murder rule for a death occurring during the commission of assault with a weapon, and with tampering with or fabricating physical evidence for an alleged attempt to dispose of the gun.

Eakin’s death left the Helena community grieving for a young man remembered for a gentle soul and creativity. If anyone has information about the events that night or knew Ryan, please come forward.