Missoula Police Nab Suspect Linked to Crash on Mary Jane

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On May 28, 2026, the Missoula Police Department provided an update regarding the ongoing investigation connected to a pursuit and crash that occurred on May 24. Police Public Information Officer Whitney Bennett has the details. 

“We recognize this incident impacted members of our community, particularly the residents whose home was struck and those who witnessed the incident,” Bennett said. “We understand the concerns that have been raised and want the public to know incidents involving pursuits, crashes, and police vehicles are taken seriously and reviewed through investigative and administrative processes. The crash investigation remains active and is being investigated by the Montana Highway Patrol, while the Missoula Police Department continues its internal review.” 

Bennett said the original incident began after an officer observed a driver operating a vehicle in an extremely reckless manner on Reserve Street, causing multiple motorists to reportedly take evasive action to avoid being struck.  

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READ MORE: Missoula Police Car Crashes Into Home During Dangerous Pursuit

“During the incident, the suspect fled from officers into residential areas at a high rate of speed before abandoning the vehicle and fleeing on foot,” Bennett said. “On May 28, 2026, the Missoula County 911 call center received information regarding a male operating a black Nissan truck recklessly near Moose Creek Trail and Wyoming Street before fleeing on foot toward the river. The vehicle had been reported stolen on May 27 from the 2800 block of Brooks Street. Responding officers located an individual matching the provided description and recognized him as 39-year-old Jesse Baylor, the same suspect identified during the May 24th investigation.” 

Bennett said Baylor fled from officers on foot onto the West Broadway Island near the California Street footbridge.  

“During the incident, Baylor was armed with a knife and made statements and actions intended to provoke officers into using deadly force,” Bennett said. “Officers deployed a drone and a Missoula County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit to convince Baylor to surrender, and he was taken into custody without injury.” 

Baylor was remanded to the Missoula County Detention Facility on charges including Resisting Arrest, Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Possession of Dangerous Drugs, Criminal Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Endangerment, Fleeing from or Eluding a Peace Officer (Aggravated), and Burglary With Theft. 

This remains an active investigation, and Bennett said no further information will be provided at this time.