FULL STORY: Elderly Woman Attempts to Rob a Missoula Bank

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On March 19, 2025, at approximately 10:35 a.m., Missoula Police Department officers responded to First Security Bank on Broadway St. after receiving a report that a female suspect was inside the Bank threating to rob it. After officers received the initial call for help, multiple other callers contacted 911 to report an active robbery taking place inside the bank.  

Upon arrival, the officers entered the bank and observed the female suspect, later identified as 72-year-old Vivian Cooper, standing at the front desk of the bank. Cooper did not initially comply with the officers' commands but was ultimately taken into custody without further incident.  

An officer spoke with a bank employee who stated that she was working the front desk when Cooper approached her and said that she would like to rob the Bank. According to court documents, the employee thought Cooper was joking but Cooper informed the employee that she was serious.  

The employee told Cooper to leave the bank. Cooper did not leave and told the employee that the employee needed to call the police. The employee pushed the panic button and then called 911. Cooper stood at the front desk and did not make further statements until police arrived and took her into custody.  

Another Bank employee was also standing at the front desk when Cooper approached. That employee stated that Cooper told the other employee that Cooper was going to rob the bank. That employee confirmed that the other employee had told Cooper to leave, and Cooper had responded by telling her to call the police. The employee said that Cooper did not do or say anything else until law enforcement arrived on scene.  

Two customers also witnessed the event and corroborated the statements of the employees. An officer observed that the customers and bank employees appeared fearful but relieved following Cooper's arrest.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Meanwhile, an officer secured Cooper inside his patrol vehicle. He asked Cooper if she would be willing to talk about what happened. Cooper responded by saying, "I was just desperate."  

The officer advised Cooper of her Miranda Rights. Cooper informed the officer that she "asked the lady, I said, I want to rob the rob the bank." Cooper then admitted, "I just thought I could go in there and get some money." She explained that she was confused and was "not thinking right." 

Cooper was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. She is currently being charged with burglary.  

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