Kenneth William Greene Charged with Deliberate Homicide in the Fatal Shooting of Ex-Girlfriend Bernadette Johnson in Helena, Montana: Incident Occurred Near Prospect Ave and North Washington Street; Victim Pronounced Dead at St. Peter’s Health; Suspect with Lengthy Criminal History Faces Potential Life Sentence
Court records indicate that Greene and the woman had previously been in a relationship and that Greene had allegedly talked about harming her. Lewis and Clark County Sheriff and Coroner Leo Dutton has identified Friday’s homicide victim in central Helena as Bernadette Johnson, 42, of Helena. Johnson died from a gunshot wound to the chest. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. near Prospect Ave. and North Washington Street. Dutton reported that Johnson was transported to St. Peter’s Health, where she was pronounced dead at 10:02 p.m. on June 21.
A Helena man has been charged with deliberate homicide after allegedly fatally shooting a woman on Friday evening. During a hearing in Lewis and Clark Justice Court on Monday, a judge set a $750,000 bond for Helena resident Kenneth William Greene. According to court documents, police were dispatched to the area of Prospect and North Washington on Friday evening following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found a woman in the driver’s seat of her SUV with a gunshot wound to her chest. Officers and firefighters attempted lifesaving measures, but the woman, whose identity has not been released, was pronounced dead at the hospital. Prosecutors say witnesses informed investigators that a man matching Greene’s description had pulled his car in front of the victim’s vehicle, exited, and then fired into her SUV before fleeing the scene.
Police identified the vehicle Greene was driving as being registered to both the suspect and the victim. Greene was taken into custody early Saturday morning at Morrison Park, north of Walmart, where police also recovered a handgun. Court records indicate that Greene and the woman had previously been in a relationship and that Greene had allegedly talked about harming her. During Monday’s court session, prosecutors informed the Justice of the Peace that Greene has a lengthy criminal history, including six violent felony convictions. If convicted, Greene faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, with the potential for a life sentence.
The fatal shooting of Bernadette Johnson has left the Helena community in shock and mourning. Friends and family of Johnson describe her as a kind and caring individual who was dedicated to her community and her loved ones. Johnson’s untimely death has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from those who knew her. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Johnson, highlighting the impact she had on their lives.
The details of the incident are harrowing. Around 9:30 p.m. on June 21, Johnson was driving her SUV near Prospect Ave. and North Washington Street when Greene allegedly pulled his car in front of hers, blocking her path. According to witness statements, Greene then exited his vehicle, approached Johnson’s SUV, and fired a shot into the driver’s side window, striking Johnson in the chest. Witnesses reported hearing the gunshot and seeing Greene flee the scene immediately afterward. The swift and brutal nature of the attack has left many in the community feeling unsettled and fearful.
First responders arrived on the scene within minutes of the shooting. Officers and firefighters attempted to perform lifesaving measures on Johnson, who was still seated in the driver’s seat of her SUV. Despite their efforts, Johnson was unresponsive and was quickly transported to St. Peter’s Health. Medical personnel continued to try to save her life, but Johnson was pronounced dead at 10:02 p.m., just over half an hour after the shooting occurred.
The investigation into Johnson’s murder moved rapidly. Based on witness descriptions and evidence found at the scene, police were able to identify Greene as the primary suspect. His vehicle, which was registered to both him and Johnson, was a key piece of evidence that linked him to the crime. Police also received information about Greene’s past threats to harm Johnson, which further solidified their case against him.
Greene was apprehended early Saturday morning at Morrison Park, north of Walmart. Officers found him in his car and took him into custody without incident. A handgun, believed to be the murder weapon, was recovered from his vehicle. The swift arrest brought some measure of relief to the community, but the tragic loss of Johnson continued to weigh heavily on everyone’s minds.
The court proceedings on Monday revealed more about Greene’s troubled past. Prosecutors presented evidence of his lengthy criminal history, which includes six violent felony convictions. This history painted a picture of a man with a propensity for violence and a disregard for the law. The judge’s decision to set a $750,000 bond reflected the severity of the charges against Greene and the potential danger he posed to the community.
As the legal process unfolds, the community of Helena is grappling with the loss of Bernadette Johnson. Memorials and vigils are being organized to honor her memory and provide support for her grieving family. Friends and colleagues remember Johnson as a dedicated professional and a loving mother. Her death has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
The case has also sparked a broader conversation about domestic violence and the need for better protective measures for those at risk. Johnson’s tragic end is a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from abusive relationships. Advocacy groups are calling for increased resources and support for victims of domestic violence, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Helena community is coming together to support Johnson’s family and to seek justice for her untimely death. The trial of Kenneth William Greene will be closely watched, as residents hope for a resolution that brings closure and justice. The legal system will now determine Greene’s fate, but the impact of his alleged actions will be felt for a long time to come.
Johnson’s family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. They have asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time, but they have also acknowledged the comfort they have received from the kind words and gestures of friends and neighbors. The strength of the Helena community is evident in their collective response to this tragedy.
As the investigation continues, more details may emerge about the events leading up to the shooting. Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward to help build a comprehensive case against Greene. The community’s cooperation and vigilance are crucial in ensuring that justice is served.
Bernadette Johnson’s legacy will be one of kindness, dedication, and love. Her tragic death has galvanized the community to come together, support one another, and advocate for change. While the road to healing will be long, the spirit of unity and compassion in Helena will help guide them through this difficult time.
The case against Kenneth William Greene is now in the hands of the legal system. As he faces charges of deliberate homicide, the evidence and testimonies presented in court will determine the outcome. The community’s focus remains on honoring Johnson’s memory and supporting her family. The impact of her loss is profound, but the resilience and strength of the Helena community will continue to shine through in the face of adversity.
As the trial progresses, the public will be watching closely, hoping for a verdict that reflects the severity of Greene’s alleged actions. The justice system’s role in providing accountability and closure is paramount. In the meantime, the community will continue to rally around Johnson’s family, offering support and solidarity.
Bernadette Johnson’s death is a stark reminder of the devastating effects of violence and the importance of addressing it proactively. Her story has touched the hearts of many, and her legacy will inspire efforts to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The Helena community’s response to this loss showcases their strength, compassion, and commitment to making a positive difference
