Shots Fired Call Leads To Drug Arrest in Missoula

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On June 7, 2024, at around 3:01 AM, a Missoula Police Department Officer was dispatched to the Fairbridge Inn on Brooks St. for a reported shots fired call. The officer was informed via radio that a suspect wearing a baseball hat left the area on foot down old Highway 93 S. 

The officer canvassed the area and observed a male and female behind the Super 8 walking away quickly. He stopped his patrol vehicle and ordered the pair to stop. The male, later identified as 20-year-old Marcus Welbourne, stopped immediately, but the female did not. The officer commanded the female to stop and she eventually complied. 

Based on the initial call for service regarding the firing of a gun, the officer conducted a pat down of Welbourne for weapons. Then the officer conducted a check of Welbourne who returned with a warrant out of Butte-Silverbow for drug charges. 

Due to the warrant, Welbourne was placed in handcuffs. Prior to conducting a search incident to arrest, the officer asked Welbourne if he had any needles on his person or other objects the officers should be concerned about. Welbourne informed the officer that he had a needle in his pocket, but it was capped.  

The officer took the needle out of Welbourne’s pocket and noticed it had a clear liquid inside, which the officer believed was methamphetamine. According to court documents, the officer asked Welbourne what the substance inside the needle was and Welbourne stated it was “uhhh drugs”. 

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

The needle was taken as evidence to be tested utilizing the TruNarc scanning device. The substance inside the needle tested presumptively positive for amphetamines. Welbourne was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. He is currently being charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs.  

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