Woman Pulls a Knife on Two Teenagers in Downtown Missoula

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On August 17, 2024, Missoula Police Department Officers were dispatched to a report of a female pulling a knife on two individuals in the downtown area. The 911 caller, 13-year-old John Doe, said the female had pulled a knife, pointed it at him, and was swearing. Doe said the female had left the area where the incident occurred and was now near the Iron Horse.  

An officer arrived and found the female near Grizzly Liquor. The officer spoke with the female, 41-year-old Keesha Downen, who said she was walking around town and nothing happened. Downen was then read her Miranda rights and acknowledged that she understood. 

The officer asked her where the knife was and she pointed to her bag. The officer asked for consent to remove the knife, which Downen granted. Downen said she did not do anything with the knife when she pulled it out of her bag and denied asking anyone for money or threatening anyone.  

Then the officer spoke with Doe and his 15-year-old friend. Doe said they were standing in front of Pie Hole, when Downen approached them, asking for money. They told Downen that they did not have any money. Then Downen asked if the two could pawn an item for her and she produced a knife. 

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Doe said they told Downen something to the effect of that she probably should not have a knife on her. It was at this point that Downen’s demeanor completely changed and she became aggressive and started to wave the knife around, swearing at them. They began walking away and stated they were fearful Downen would escalate and stab them. Doe said Downen pointed the knife directly at them during the altercation. 

Downen was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. She is currently being charged with felony assault with a weapon.  

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