Missoula Police Send Officers to Bozeman for Brawl of the Wild

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Some are calling it the most important football game in Montana history. The Brawl of the Wild 2.0 is this Saturday, and the Missoula Police Department has a message.

“This weekend’s FCS semi-final playoff game will once again bring together two of Montana’s biggest rivals, the Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State Bobcats, as they face off in Bozeman,” said Police Public Information Officer Whitney Bennett. “While the teams battle it out on the field, the Missoula Police Department and Bozeman Police Department are teaming up behind the scenes to help ensure a safe and enjoyable event for everyone attending.”

As part of a mutual aid agreement, Bennett said MPD will send officers to Bozeman on Friday to assist with public safety efforts throughout the city, as this reflects the strong working relationship between their agencies.

“The City of Missoula and the City of Bozeman will share costs associated with the deployment,” Bennett said. “The City of Missoula will remain fully staffed throughout the weekend and capable of meeting all normal operational needs.”

Bennett said this partnership provides value to both communities.

“For Bozeman, it adds additional public safety support during a high-attendance event,” said Bennett. “For MPD officers, it offers a unique professional development opportunity to assist with a large-scale event they may not regularly experience. This unique situation reinforces the essential working relationship between MPD and BPD.”

Reflecting the long-standing rivalry, Missoula Police Chief Michael Colyer and Bozeman Police Chief Jim Veltkamp have agreed to a friendly wager. The chief representing the losing team will wear the opposing team’s apparel at work the following week.

“No matter which team takes the win on the field, Montana’s law enforcement agencies continue to stand together,” Bennett said. “GO GRIZ!”