Missoula Woman Uses Bear Spray During Puppy Dispute

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On December 31, 2024, Missoula Police Department Officers were dispatched to a 911 call of someone being assaulted by bear spray at a trailer on Cooley Street. The complainant, Jane Doe, stated she was “sprayed by Mary.” An officer arrived on the scene and spoke to Doe.  

Doe stated Mary had entered her trailer without permission or knowledge. Doe was in the trailer’s bedroom with another female. Mary entered and demanded a puppy in Doe’s possession. The puppy is the subject of a current property dispute. Mary demanded the puppy stating if Doe did not comply, Mary would take the puppy. Doe inquired how Mary would do this if Doe refused. Mary said, “I’ll show you” and then sprayed Doe in the face with bear spray.  

The officer noted Doe had a coughing fit over the 911 call. The officer further observed that the puppy had its right eye closed, was whimpering, and appeared to be suffering from effects of bear spray. The officer also noted when he crossed the threshold of the doorway into the trailer, there was a stinging, pungent, and choking atmosphere of bear spray. The officer had momentary difficulty breathing.  

The officer was provided with a description of Mary and a description of the vehicle Mary exited the trailer in. Other officers shortly located a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle Mary exited the trailer complex in driving near Russell Street. A traffic stop was conducted and officers observed two occupants, a male driver, and 35-year-old Mary Hansen. 

According to court documents, an officer observed that Mary had orange staining on her hands consistent with pepper spray. While speaking to Mary, an officer also recognized the distinct odor of pepper spray. 

Mary was initially uncooperative, but later admitted she took it upon herself to get her friend’s dog back. Mary said she spoke to the people holding the dog, but it escalated. Mary then admitted to spraying the occupants of the trailer with pepper spray.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Officers inquired into the location of the bear spray can. Mary stated it was in the front passenger compartment of the vehicle. Mary and the driver both provided consent for officers to retrieve the can, which was seized as evidence. 

Mary was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility. She is currently being charged with felony aggravated burglary.  

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