Montana Highway Patrol Takes Down Fugitive Near Big Timber

Montana Highway Patrol officials have reported that two of their troopers were involved in a critical incident near Big Timber during the afternoon of Thursday, April 3.

The situation escalated after officials received information that a male fugitive from Nebraska, with a no-bond warrant for threatening to use explosives or place bombs, had entered Montana.

Timeline of Events

According to the Montana Department of Justice, at about 2:48 p.m., a trooper notified dispatch that he had located the suspect's vehicle near Big Timber. Another trooper in the area was called in for backup.

Following a traffic stop initiated by one of the troopers, the suspect attempted to flee, prompting the trooper to employ a precision immobilization technique (PIT) maneuver to stop the vehicle.

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However, the maneuver was unsuccessful, and the suspect allegedly fired shots at the troopers, who then returned fire. The suspect was eventually brought down, and the entire incident lasted approximately three minutes.

Outcome of the Incident

The male suspect, who authorities say was known to be armed and dangerous, was declared deceased at the scene. Both troopers involved in the encounter escaped unharmed and have been put on administrative leave, according to Montana Highway Patrol protocol.

The Sweet Grass County Sheriff's Office provided support at the site, and the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is leading the investigation into the incident.

Official Comments from MHP

Montana Highway Patrol Colonel Kurt Sager commended the quick thinking and bravery of the troopers involved, stating that their actions prevented a potentially more severe outcome.

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Sager expressed confidence in DCI's ability to conduct a thorough investigation and acknowledged the valuable assistance provided by the Sweet Grass County Sheriff's Office at the scene.