Man Swallows Fentanyl Pills While Running From Missoula Police
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) On July 24, 2024, at around 8:57 PM, a Missoula Police Department Officer responded to Luella Ln to assist officers in searching for a suspect who possibly just violated a court order of protection. The victim had contacted 911 stating a male she had a protection order against had just been in the alley behind her home. Officers responded to search for the male suspect, Timothy Clark.
While the officer was searching the area he observed a male walking eastbound on River Road just blocks away from the incident location. As his patrol vehicle came to a stop the officer exited and announced to the male “Hey Tim!” The male then turned, looked at him, and continued to walk away.
The officer provided a description of the male to dispatch and another officer confirmed that description matched the description of the male that was at Luella. The officer also reviewed a recent booking photo of Timothy and believed this male was him due to a similar facial structure, height, weight, and hair color.
After he informed the male to come to his location, the male instantly ran away by running around the corner of a nearby house. Shortly after, a passerby observed the male run under the bridge. Officers began running after the suspect who ran towards the riverbank. Shortly after this occurred, the officers arrived at the location where the male was believed to be and were informed he was possibly hiding.
An officer then observed the male jump from tall grass and start running towards the river. When this occurred, he stated “Tim do not move. Don’t move!” However, the male began running again. As this occurred, the officer responded down to the riverbank where he retrieved his taser. The officer then began to give multiple announcements to the male to stop running and lie down. The officer started his announcements by informing the male to stop running or “I’ll send my dog”, referring to a police K9.
The male finally stopped running. After multiple commands, the male complied and laid down on the ground. The officer approached the male and detained him in handcuffs. After the male was detained in a patrol car, he informed the officer his name was not Timothy. The male then said his name was, Joseph Wright. It was also discovered Wright had an outstanding felony warrant for his arrest and was also on probation.
READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports
Wright was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. While en route to jail, Wright stated he had consumed three fentanyl pills as he was running from officers. According to court documents, it is believed Wright was attempting to consume the pills, so officers did not locate him in possession of the pills. Wright was then transported to St. Patrick’s Hospital for medical clearance.
Wright is currently being charged with felony tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, resisting arrest, and obstructing a peace officer.
The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.
30 Items That Montana Goodwill Will NOT Accept
Gallery Credit: KC