Missoula Man Charged with DUI, Vehicular Assault After Crash

Authorities say the suspect fled the scene before being apprehended.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:58am

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An extreme close-up of a shattered car side mirror reflecting a bright flash of light, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash caused by an impaired driver.A recent wave of hit-and-run crashes in Missoula has exposed the city's ongoing struggle to address drunk driving and vehicular assault.Missoula Today

A 32-year-old Missoula man has been charged with DUI and vehicular assault after allegedly causing a crash and then fleeing the scene, according to the Missoula Police Department. The suspect was later located and taken into custody.

Why it matters

Drunk driving incidents and hit-and-run crashes are an ongoing concern for public safety in Missoula, which has seen an increase in traffic accidents in recent years. This case highlights the need for stricter enforcement and consequences for those who endanger others on the road.

The details

Police say the suspect, whose name has not been released, was driving under the influence when he allegedly caused a collision in Missoula on the evening of April 10th. The suspect reportedly fled the scene on foot before officers were able to apprehend him a short distance away. He was then taken into custody and booked on charges of DUI and vehicular assault.

  • The incident occurred on the evening of April 10, 2026 in Missoula, Montana.
  • The suspect was arrested and charged shortly after fleeing the crash scene.

The players

Missoula Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and made the arrest.

32-year-old Missoula Resident

The unnamed suspect who was charged with DUI and vehicular assault after allegedly causing a crash and fleeing the scene.

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What’s next

The suspect is being held in the Missoula County Jail and is scheduled to appear before a judge for an arraignment hearing on April 13th.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges Missoula faces in combating drunk driving and hit-and-run incidents, which put innocent lives at risk. Stricter enforcement and harsher penalties may be needed to deter such reckless behavior and improve public safety on Missoula's roads.