Missoula Robber Steals Soda, Pepper-Sprays Security Guard

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On February 15, 2026, a Missoula Police Department Officer responded to the Town Pump on N. Reserve Street for a report of a robbery. The reporting party called 911 to report that an on-scene security guard had been maced by a shoplifter, as the shoplifter was attempting to leave the scene. While en route, the officer was informed that the individual deploying the mace, later identified as David Lawson, had left the scene in a blue passenger car.

The officer arrived on scene at approximately 9:52 PM. The male who had been maced, John Doe, was at a sink washing his eyes. Doe stated he was a retired law enforcement officer and had experience being exposed to pepper spray in the past. While continuing to wash his eyes, Doe provided the officer with a statement.

Doe stated he had stopped at the gas station to get fuel and coffee before continuing on with his business route (as a security officer). While in the store, Doe observed the two store clerks go outside and confront two suspects about stealing a case of Dr. Pepper and a case of Fanta Orange soda. Doe stated that he watched as one of the suspects refused to return the Fanta, while the other immediately returned the Dr. Pepper and left.

Get our free mobile app

Doe stated the male suspect, Lawson, was told that he should return the stolen merchandise. Lawson then became defensive and refused, and continued walking to his blue Ford passenger car. Doe stepped in front of Lawson and again recommended he return the merchandise. After several moments of a verbal back and forth about the stolen goods, Doe stated that Lawson suddenly sprayed Doe in the face.

Other officers began searching for Lawson. At the intersection of Scott and Broadway, an officer observed Lawson’s vehicle traveling eastbound on Broadway. The officer engaged his overhead lights and conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle. Lawson was then placed into handcuffs and secured in a patrol vehicle. The passenger of the vehicle was placed in a separate patrol car. The officer observed a 12-pack of Orange Fanta soda in the back seat and a pepper spray bottle attached to the key ring hanging from the ignition. 

An officer read Lawson his Miranda rights, which Lawson confirmed he understood and agreed to speak. Lawson stated, “The man I pepper-sprayed said he was gonna shoot me”. The officer noted Lawson was unable to explain why he thought he was going to be shot, so the officer asked Lawson if he had stolen any product from the store. Lawson began stumbling over his words, stating, “That’s not” repeatedly before stating, “I’m not gonna answer that.” 

READ MORE: Missoula News - Crime Reports

Lawson was arrested and transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility. He is currently being charged with felony robbery.

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