UPDATE: Missoula Police Arrest Shooting Suspect

(UPDATE: 7/16/25 at 7:36 PM)

Missoula Police Department Public Information Officer Whitney Bennett provided an update about the shooting that occurred on Cooper Street.

"As a result of the ongoing investigation into the shooting incident that occurred just before 06:30 AM this morning in the 2000 block of Cooper Street, 27-year-old Josef Manchester has been remanded to the Missoula County Detention Facility," Bennett said. "At this time, he is being held on preliminary charges of Assault with a Weapon, Criminal Endangerment, and Criminal Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Distribute. Final charging decisions will be made by the Missoula County Attorney’s Office as the case proceeds."

Based on current information, Bennett said this appears to have been an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

"The swift and coordinated response by Missoula Police Department officers and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office deputies ensured that all involved parties were quickly located and accounted for," Bennett said. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and conduct interviews to ensure a thorough understanding of the events that occurred."

Detective Joseph Burger is currently the lead investigator on this case.

"Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Burger at (406) 552-6283," Bennett said. "We appreciate the patience and understanding of area residents while the scene was secured and processed today. The cooperation of the public is vital to the success of investigations such as this one."

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

(First Report: 7/16/25 at 8:53 AM)

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On July 16, 2025, the Missoula Police Department sent out a statement that they are investigating a shooting that occurred on Cooper Street. Police Public Information Officer Whitney Bennett has the details.

“Just before 06:30 this morning, Missoula Police Department officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 2000 block of Cooper Street,” Bennett said. “Upon arrival, officers located a 30-year-old male suffering from gunshot wounds to the torso. Officers immediately initiated life-saving measures, including wound packing and other trauma care techniques, until emergency medical services arrived.” 

According to Bennett, the victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

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“Shortly after the initial response, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle believed to be connected to the incident,” Bennett said. “The occupants of the vehicle were detained without incident. At this time, all individuals involved have been accounted for, and Missoula Police Department detectives are actively conducting interviews.” 

Bennett said no arrests have been made at this stage in the preliminary investigation. 

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is urged to contact Detective Ethan Smith at (406) 552-6335. 

READ MORE: Missoula News - Crime Reports

The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as appropriate.