Resisting Arrest: Missoula Man Throws a Firepit and Burnt Log

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On March 22, 2026, John Doe parked his vehicle in the 2500 block of Clark Fork Lane. Doe heard a voice yelling from an apartment balcony three stories above him and observed the silhouette of a male. The male on the balcony yelled a warning to Doe that included a statement regarding a “board to the head.” Doe yelled back that the unknown male better not do anything to his vehicle.  

Then the male threw a metal solo firepit that landed near Doe’s rear passenger tire. The offender also threw a burnt log that landed close to Doe and his vehicle. Doe later reported that he and his dog were forced to “dart” to avoid being hit by the objects. Doe called 911 and reported that at the same time the male stated, “f**k you” to him and called him a “f****t.”  

The Missoula Police Department dispatched officers to the incident. The male was identified as 27-year-old William Paradee and he is well known to MPD. Since September 2025, MPD received 26 calls for service regarding Paradee’s improper conduct and wellbeing. 911 calls over this period include suspected disorderly conduct, illegal burns on his back porch, mental health related calls, and welfare checks. 

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Inside the Apartment: Confronting Paradee

Officers knocked on Paradee’s front door. Once officers entered, Paradee entered an interior bedroom and closed the door. An officer noted a pocket knife stabbed into the wall beside the door. He could see multiple holes in the wall that appeared to have been caused by a knife. 

Paradee soon opened the door and emerged with a blanket wrapped around his torso. Officers interacted with Paradee on his living room couch. Paradee denied that he threw anything from the balcony. Upon handcuffing Paradee and asking him to stand, an officer believed that Paradee tried to lunge at his leg. Paradee was pushed back onto the couch. Paradee became irate and called the officers “f*****s” multiple times. Officers escorted Paradee from the apartment in handcuffs.  

While moving down the third-floor apartment hallway, Paradee acted belligerently. Both officers reported that Paradee intentionally tripped one officer. The officer fell to the ground and suffered pain when his knee struck the concrete surface. 

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Officers were unable to calm Paradee sufficiently. Due to his bodily resistance, officers utilized a department-issued WRAP restraint and protective helmet to safely take Paradee into custody. 

Serious Charges: The Legal Ramifications

Paradee is currently being charged with felony attempted assault with a weapon, felony assault on a peace officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct. His bond was set at $100,000. 

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