Investigation underway into death of man in police custody in Missoula

MISSOULA — The investigation into the death of a man in Missoula police custody Wednesday is ongoing, according to a news release from Missoula Police Department spokeswoman Whitney Bennett.

It happened just before 1:30 p.m. when officers from the Missoula Rural Fire Department were dispatched to the 2400 block of Dixon Avenue for a report of a structure fire. Police believe the fire was likely caused by a criminal act.

When they arrived, officers said they attempted to arrest a 39-year-old man who was connected to the investigation. However, the man was uncooperative and resisted arrest.

After a lengthy physical altercation, he was no longer responsive, the press release states.

Officers used Narcan, an automated external defibrillator (AED), and performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation until medical personnel arrived. The man died at the scene, the news release said.

The officers involved in the case have been placed on leave.

The Montana Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation is conducting an independent investigation into this incident, and the Missoula Police Department said it is fully cooperating with the DCI’s investigation.

Read the full press release from Missoula Police below:

Missoula Police Department Statement on Critical Officer Involved Incident

Missoula, MT – May 29, 2024 – The Missoula Police Department issues this statement regarding a tragic incident that occurred today resulting in the death of a 39-year-old man while in police custody.

Shortly before 1:30 p.m., officers from the Missoula Police Department, along with the Missoula Fire Department, were dispatched to the 2400 block of Dixon Avenue for a report of a structure fire that was likely caused by a crime. Upon arrival, officers attempted to arrest a man in connection with this investigation. The man was uncooperative and resisted arrest. After a lengthy physical altercation, the man was unresponsive.

Officers administered Narcan, performed CPR, and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) until medical personnel arrived. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Missoula Police extend their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased for the loss of their loved one.

This is a deeply disturbing situation that affects all of us. As law enforcement officers, we are sworn to preserve and protect lives. The Missoula Police Department has requested the Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to investigate this incident. The DCI is conducting an independent investigation into this incident and the Missoula Police Department is fully cooperating with the investigation.

Per our department policy, the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave. We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the DCI. We are committed to being open and transparent throughout this investigation and the Missoula Police Department will update the public as new information becomes available.