Impaired Driver With Gun Sparks Chaos at Missoula Mall

41-year-old David Morris faces multiple charges after alleged road rage incident

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:15am

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On January 28, 2026, Missoula police responded to a report of assault with a weapon at a local restaurant. An out-of-town couple reported that 41-year-old David Morris, who appeared to be impaired, followed them through traffic, waved a gun at them, and tried to trap their vehicle in the mall parking lot before police arrived and arrested him.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and road rage, which can escalate quickly and put innocent bystanders at risk. It also raises concerns about repeat DUI offenders and the challenges of addressing substance abuse and mental health issues that may contribute to such dangerous behavior.

The details

According to police, Morris was driving erratically, swerving and stopping suddenly, before following the couple from the interstate to the mall. When the couple tried to get away, Morris allegedly drove at them, waved a gun, and tried to block them in the parking lot. Officers found Morris appeared impaired, and a search of his vehicle uncovered the gun. Morris, who has five prior DUI convictions, was charged with two counts of felony assault with a weapon and felony DUI.

  • On January 28, 2026, Missoula Police Department Officers responded to a report of assault with a weapon at Texas Roadhouse.
  • Morris was taken to St. Patrick Hospital for a blood draw after his arrest.

The players

David Morris

A 41-year-old man who was arrested and charged with two counts of felony assault with a weapon and felony DUI after the incident.

John Doe

The out-of-town driver who reported Morris to police after he allegedly followed, threatened, and tried to trap Doe and his girlfriend in the mall parking lot.

Jane Doe

The passenger in Doe's truck who was shaken and scared during the incident with Morris.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow David Morris out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need to address repeat DUI offenders and the risks they pose to public safety, as well as the importance of swift action to remove impaired drivers from the road before they can harm themselves or others.