Missoula Robber Beats Victim, Gets Arrested the Next Day
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On January 9, 2023, at approximately 6:04 p.m., Missoula Police Department Officers were dispatched to a report of a disturbance on Hawthorn Street. When the officers arrived, they spoke to the male victim.
The victim said he met a male named Ross earlier in the day at a local bar and invited him back to his camper. While in the camper, the victim said Ross attacked him. The victim reported that Ross demanded money and took his wallet while he was on the ground. The victim said he gave Ross his wallet to avoid another beating. Officers observed injuries to the victim’s face and noticed he was also bleeding from his right ear.
Officers spoke to another male who witnessed the altercation. The witness said he saw Ross punch the victim in the head three or four times and then in the stomach a couple of times. He said the fight ended up outside and that the victim was on the ground and hit his head. The witness said he tried to get Ross to stop, but couldn’t.
On January 10, 2023, an officer found 31-year-old Ross McDonnell at the bus station downtown and he was placed under arrest. Ross had blood on the right side of his cheek and there was a small cut on his upper lip. Ross was read his rights by an MPD Detective and agreed to speak. Ross said he was at a bar the day before and hung out with a cook from there after his work.
Ross said they went grocery shopping at Fresh Market, which is near where the robbery occurred. Ross denied being in anyone’s camper and said he did not remember the victim because he is not good with names. Ross also denied being in an altercation or taking a wallet. Court documents indicate Ross’ left middle knuckle appeared swollen and bruised.
Ross McDonnell is currently being charged with one count of felony robbery. On January 12, 2023, he made his initial appearance in Missoula Justice Court where his bond was set at $10,000.
The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.