The Surprising Story Behind a Stolen Van in Missoula

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On May 14, 2025, at 6:52 a.m., a Missoula Police Department officer responded to a report that a vehicle, a white Chevrolet Express van, had been stolen from a hotel in the 3000 block of Stockyard Rd. The reporter informed 911 that his brother’s van was stolen from the hotel where it was parked, and was potentially seen near 500 W. Broadway St. 

Approximately ten minutes after the initial call, a Missoula County Sheriff’s Office deputy saw the stolen van swerving erratically between lanes and determined that he needed to wait for additional support so a high-risk traffic stop could be executed.  

After another deputy arrived, they began their pursuit as the van continued to veer in and out of its lanes. As the van continued to travel southbound on Reserve St., it eventually came to a stop near Spurgin Rd.  

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The deputies exited their patrol vehicles and began approaching the van, giving verbal commands to the driver to lower all windows, turn off the vehicle, and slowly exit the vehicle. The driver, later identified as 69-year-old Kathryn Hernandez, complied.  

After being placed under arrest, Hernandez was advised of her Miranda rights, which she voluntarily waived. Hernandez informed the officer that the van was not hers and that she had entered the van during the night. She said she was using it as a place to sleep because she noticed it was unlocked.  

According to court documents, Hernandez further explained that she woke up in the morning to the van being started. Hernandez explained that the vehicle being started scared her, and she didn't know what to do. Hernandez later explained that she was confused about how the owner of the vehicle didn’t notice her in the back of the van. 

READ MORE: Missoula News - Crime Reports

Hernandez also admitted that after the owner walked away from the van while it was left running, she decided to take the van. Hernandez advised that she was going to take the van to the library, then go underneath the Madison Street bridge, where she lives by the river. Law Enforcement reports also note that Hernandez admitted to stealing the van numerous times to hospital staff. 

Hernandez was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. She is currently being charged with felony theft of property of a light vehicle and criminal trespass to vehicle. Her bond was set at $500. 

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