Shoplifting Leads To Wild Chase In Missoula City Hall

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On July 1, 2025, 30-year-old Nathan Irby was at Zootown Hype & Vintage on Alder Street in downtown Missoula. A store manager saw Irby conceal items in his backpack. She approached him, and he exclaimed that he was late for a court appointment and ran out of the store.  

A short time later, Irby came into Missoula City Hall. He was out of breath and his face was red. He came up to the security window and stated he was late for court. Another male, John Doe, came rushing in stating that the person at the security window (Irby) had just shoplifted from his store, and he chased him to the courthouse.  

Doe stated that the backpack had stolen items in it. He asked Irby for the items back. Irby tried to leave, but Doe was blocking the door and stated that he just wanted the property back. Irby then attacked Doe. Irby got Doe in an arm lock and was punching him in the back of the head. Black Knight Security saw Irby punch Doe 3-4 times.  

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A Missoula Police Department officer was in Missoula City Hall bringing in another arrestee when there was a duress alarm activation and an active physical altercation in City Hall. She saw Irby running and attempting to flee from City Hall. She pursued on foot with another officer, and Irby was detained.  

Doe told the officer that he was in his store when he saw Irby leave without paying. He pursued him from the area of Grizzly Liquor into City Hall. Doe said Irby was striking and hitting him in the front and back of the head multiple times. Irby grabbed Doe by the throat and applied pressure by squeezing. Doe described the force as 8 out of 10.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

According to court documents, Irby declined to make substantive statements to law enforcement. He was arrested and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. He is currently being charged with felony robbery, and his bond was set at $10,000. 

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