Big Sky Times

The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is currently investigating an officer-involved critical incident that occurred early Saturday morning in Cut Bank. The event took place in the Pioneer Bar parking lot at 13 N. Central Avenue.

At approximately 1:20 a.m., a Cut Bank police officer observed a disorderly individual outside another bar. When approached, the individual fled to a parked vehicle in the Pioneer Bar parking lot. After being ordered out of the car, the suspect drove over the officer, who then discharged his duty weapon at the man. The suspect, aged 42, was struck by gunfire and is now in critical condition. The officer sustained injuries and received medical treatment; he is expected to make a full recovery.

The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave as the investigation continues. The identities of both the officer and the suspect have not been released at this time.

The Cut Bank Police Department requested DCI's involvement to ensure transparency in investigating both the vehicular assault and subsequent shooting. Upon completion, the investigation results will be submitted to the Glacier County Attorney for consideration of appropriate charges.

DCI administrator Bryan Lockerby commented on the situation: “I’m glad to hear the officer survived the incident – the outcome could have been much worse,” adding that “Every investigation into officer-involved critical incidents takes considerable time as our agents are always responsive, intentional, and thorough when processing the scene and following up with interviews, ballistics, and toxicology.”

Further details are unavailable as this investigation remains in its early stages.