Man Pretends to be a Federal Agent, Flashes Gun at Missoula Bar

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On January 20, 2024, at approximately 8:09 PM, Missoula Police Department Officers were dispatched to Stockman’s Bar for a report of a male refusing to leave. Officers were informed that the male was claiming to be a federal agent and flashing a pistol at employees. The pistol was reportedly under the male’s armpit, in a rib holster. 

As an officer was en route, he was told that the male had left the bar and was walking eastbound on Front Street. The officer observed a large group of people standing in line to enter the Wilma Theater and noticed the suspect male who was later identified as 34-year-old Lonnie Hubbard. 

Another officer told Hubbard to walk towards his patrol vehicle. Hubbard replied “me?” and the officer responded in the affirmative. Hubbard began walking towards the patrol car and away from the crowd. While doing so, Hubbard manipulated a red sweatshirt that he had in his hands and a black pistol fell to the ground.  

The officer observed Hubbard look at the firearm, look at him, and then back at the firearm again. Given the close proximity to the crowd, the officer quickly lunged forward and pushed Hubbard away from the firearm. Hubbard then began running southbound in traffic. Officers chased Hubbard and took him to the ground. 

Hubbard Continues to Resist Arrest

According to court documents, Hubbard continued to tuck his arms under his body and attempted to flee from officers. Officers said Hubbard was actively using physical force to resist being arrested. After more struggle, Hubbard was eventually placed into handcuffs. Hubbard was placed into a patrol car and was transported to the jail. Once at the jail, Hubbard provided a breath sample, which was found to be .142 BrAC. 

Another officer responded to the area and immediately located the black Glock 22 on the ground. The officer removed the magazine, finding it to contain live rounds of ammunition and a live round in the chamber. 

Officers returned to the bar to speak with witnesses. A bartender stated Hubbard made it clear that he had a firearm in his jacket, told him he was a “federal agent”, and talked about trying to buy drugs. A bar patron told officers Hubbard asked him where he could obtain cocaine. He also said Hubbard kept flashing the gun, but didn’t take it out of the holster. 

Hubbard is currently being charged with felony impersonation of a public servant, resisting arrest, obstructing a peace officer, and carrying a concealed weapon under the influence. 

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.