Missoula Robber Takes Victim’s Marijuana, Runs From Police

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On December 6, 2023, a Missoula Police Department Officer was dispatched to a report of a disturbance at 113 West Main Street. The call notes advised that a male, John Doe, was physically assaulted by a male wearing an olive-colored jacket.  

An officer arrived on scene and contacted Doe who said that he was leaving the Dark Horse where he had just purchased $60 worth of marijuana. Doe advised that when he was standing outside, he noticed the suspect male begin to run towards him in an aggressive manner. 

Doe stated that he punched the suspect in self-defense when he got close to him, but the suspect immediately started kicking Doe and knocked him down to the ground. During the assault, the suspect took the marijuana Doe had just purchased and fled on foot down Higgins Avenue. The officer observed dried and muddy water on Doe’s back and legs which were photographed for evidence. 

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Later in the officer’s shift, at approximately 4:42 p.m., the officer observed the suspect matching the description at the intersection of Orange and Front Street. The officer announced himself as Law Enforcement gave the suspect multiple commands to come to him. The suspect disregarded the officer’s commands and began running away. 

The suspect ran north across Broadway putting motorists, himself, and the officer in danger. This area is commonly congested with a large amount of traffic at that time of day. The officer was able to catch up to the suspect while he ran in between an orange road barricade and chain link fence. The officer grabbed the suspect and forced him to the ground. 

The officer was able to place the suspect in handcuffs. During the arrest, a container of marijuana was located in the suspect’s pocket. The suspect identified himself as 25-year-old Christian Burkhardt. Burkhardt claimed that he had “found the marijuana on the street”.  

Burkhardt was transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility without further incident. He is currently being charged with felony robbery, resisting arrest, and obstructing a peace officer. 

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