Missoula Fugitive Takes Own Life During Attempted Traffic Stop

On September 13, 2022, at around 11:15 a.m., the Missoula Police Department announced they were searching for fugitive Patrick Cork who was armed and dangerous. He had a $50,000 warrant for his arrest and was actively attempting to elude law enforcement. It was also reported that Cork was in possession of a handgun.

On September 13, 2022, at approximately 11:55 p.m., Ronan Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Round Butte Road. Lake County Sheriff Don Bell explains.

“Preliminary investigation shows that prior to yielding to the officer, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle shot himself,” Bell said. “The driver was identified as 50-year-old Patrick Cork who had warrants for his arrest out of Missoula, and who was the subject of a recent alert broadcasted by Missoula Police. The officer rendered first aid to Cork, who was hospitalized but died hours later.”

Bell said the Lake County Coroner’s Office is investigating the death and the decedent has been transported to the Montana State Crime Lab for autopsy.