Missoula Officer Sees Woman Smoking Meth by the River

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On July 17, 2026, a Missoula Police Department Officer was performing an extra patrol on foot by Downtown Lions Park and the Clark Fork River. The officer observed a female sitting on a log by the river who raised a glass pipe to her mouth.  

The female, later identified as 28-year-old Tatiana Weed, used a handheld lighter torch to heat the end of the pipe while inhaling deeply. The officer recognized through his training and experience that the pipe matched what is commonly used to ingest dangerous drugs.  

After inhaling, Weed noticed the officer. The officer observed Weed’s eyes widen and told her to set the pipe down, which Weed complied with. Then the officer handcuffed Weed. During this time, Weed was apologetic and asked if “there is anything we can do to work this out.” Weed pleaded and advised she would go to a “detox clinic” while requesting a ticket.  

The officer observed the pipe close up, confirming his suspicions. Weed was provided Miranda. When asked what Weed was smoking, Weed responded, “meth.” The officer observed a purse next to Weed. The officer asked for consent to search the bag. Weed questioned whether a warrant was required, stated “I just give up”, and then advised she did not wish to speak further.  

Another officer arrived on scene and observed crystals of suspected methamphetamine inside the bulb of the pipe. Weed was arrested and transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility.  

The officer applied for and was granted a search warrant for Weed’s purse by the Honorable Shane Vannatta. The officer located a second pipe inside Weed’s purse. The officer tested the crystals inside the glass pipe he saw Weed using, which resulted in a presumptive positive for methamphetamine. 

READ MORE: Missoula News - Crime Reports

Weed is currently being charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia.  

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