Man Flees From Missoula Police, Throws Copper Wires Into a River

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On June 11, 2023, at approximately 6:00 a.m., a Missoula Police Department officer was on patrol near Silver Park in Missoula. The officer observed a male, later identified as 31-year-old Kyle Houck, riding a bicycle westbound on the river trail holding a large bundle of red and white wires in his left hand. The wires appeared to be several feet long and were thick in diameter. The officer recognized it as the type of wire used for industrial building projects.  

According to court documents, Houck continued to ride his bicycle toward the patrol car. When Houck noticed the patrol car, he quickly ducked his head to conceal his face and began to quickly peddle down the trail. The officer knows the area surrounding Silver Park has several large construction sites and that it is common for individuals to steal materials, such as copper wires, for a quick profit.  

The officer used the lights and sirens on his patrol vehicle to attempt to stop Houck. Houck crossed in front of the patrol car and the officer followed him. Houck continued to ride his bike ignoring the sirens and lights from the patrol car for approximately 1,600 feet and did not stop. When Houck crossed a footbridge that the officer could not cross in his patrol car, the officer shared his location information with other responding officers. The responding officers were then able to locate and detain Houck. 

The original officer responded to the area and asked the arresting officers if they had located any wire. An officer said Houck had tossed the wire. The officer asked Houck where the wires were, and Houck admitted that he threw them in the river.  

Court documents indicate Houck told the officer he threw the copper wires in the river because he has gotten in trouble for having copper wires before and did not want to be profiled. Houck also admitted he saw the patrol car but stated he did not know he was being pulled over. 

Houck was arrested and transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. He is currently being charged with felony tampering with or fabricating physical evidence and obstructing a peace officer. On June 12, 2023, Houck made his initial appearance in Missoula Justice Court and his bond was set at $2,500. 

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