Lee Dutton was killed in the first episode of “Yellowstone.” He died during a conflict over cattle with the Broken Rock Reservation.
Lee Dutton, portrayed by Dave Annable, is the eldest son of John Dutton, who owns the largest contiguous ranch in the United States. In the series premiere, tensions escalate between the Dutton family and the Broken Rock Reservation. The Duttons are involved in a dispute with the Native Americans over cattle that have strayed onto the reservation. During this confrontation, Lee attempts to retrieve the cattle but is caught in a violent altercation.
Kayce Dutton, Lee’s brother, who lives on the reservation with his Native American wife and son, becomes involved in the conflict. The situation intensifies, leading to a shootout. In the chaos, Lee is tragically shot and killed by Robert Long, the brother-in-law of Kayce. This event profoundly impacts the Dutton family and sets the stage for the ongoing drama and power struggles depicted in the series. Lee’s death is a catalyst for many of the show’s storylines, highlighting the dangerous and complex world of ranching and land ownership in Montana.