Man Sets Two Vehicles on Fire, Flees From Deputies in Missoula
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On December 3, 2022, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were called to a report of disorderly conduct in the 7800 block of Antelope Drive. While en route, a deputy received information that a male was breaking the windows of vehicles, was pouring gasoline on the vehicles, and setting them on fire.
The suspect was reported to be driving a blue and white Ford and was reported to have left the scene. Shortly after arriving on the scene, the deputy was informed that other deputies were engaged in a pursuit with the suspect vehicle.
When the deputy arrived at the home, he observed two vehicles in the driveway that were fully engulfed in flames. The vehicles were parked approximately ten feet from the home, which was occupied by several individuals, including a quadriplegic woman and children.
Homeowner Explains What Happened
Deputies spoke with a male who lived in the home. The male said he heard some loud banging noises coming from the front of his home. He said he looked outside and observed a male hitting the windows of his vehicle.
The male was not sure what the male was hitting the windows with and stated he did not recognize the male initially. It wasn’t until he observed the male’s Ford pickup that he recognized the vehicle and the male as Robert Leuphold.
The male stated that Leuphold’s girlfriend has been dropped off at the house in the past and has provided care, as an at-home caregiver, for the male’s quadriplegic aunt, who lives within the home. The male further stated that he believes the fires were set as retribution because Leuphold believes his girlfriend is engaged in a relationship with him.
The deputy observed a camera on an adjacent home and spoke with the owner who stated the camera worked and allowed the deputy to review the video. The deputy observed Leuphold and noted that his movements were consistent with the story provided by the male.
Leuphold Leads Deputies on a Lengthy Pursuit
While this was going on, other deputies were involved in a pursuit with Leuphold who refused to pull over. At one point, a deputy struck Leuphold’s vehicle, causing it to turn 90 degrees and come to a stop.
Leuphold exited his vehicle and begin quickly approaching the deputies. Leuphold began stating “kill me, kill me motherf***er.” Both deputies observed that Leuphold did not have anything in his hands.
Both deputies retrieved their Tasers and deployed them. Leuphold was struck with the probes and fell to the ground. Leuphold was placed under arrest and taken to the Missoula County Detention Center. While at the center, a deputy noted that Leuphold’s clothing smelled strongly of gasoline.
Leuphold is currently being charged with two counts of felony arson, felony criminal endangerment, fleeing from or eluding a peace officer, and reckless driving.
The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.