Woman Charged After Assaulting Missoula Officer
Marcella Black Dog faces felony charges following a violent struggle during an arrest near a local hotel.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Property Crime
Missoula police arrested 25-year-old Marcella Black Dog on September 22, 2026, after she allegedly assaulted an officer. The suspect now faces two counts of felony attempted assault on a peace officer, obstruction, and trespass.
Why it matters
The confrontation occurred after the officer attempted to arrest the suspect for trespassing at an Albertsons store. The incident highlights the risks officers face during routine enforcement of property violations.
The suspect, Marcella Black Dog, is being held on a $5,000 bond at the Missoula County Detention Facility. She faces two felony counts of attempted assault on a peace officer, alongside charges for obstruction and trespass.
The players
Marcella Black Dog
She is a 25-year-old suspect currently held at the Missoula County Detention Facility.
Missoula Police Department
The local agency responsible for investigating the assault and managing the arrest of the suspect.
The details
The suspect reportedly struck at the officer’s head and face 3 to 6 times and attempted to pull the officer's fingers backward during a struggle at the Travelodge Inn. Police utilized a leg sweep to subdue the suspect before pinning her hands behind her head to secure the arrest.
Timeline
July 7, 2026: The suspect was officially trespassed from the Albertsons property.
September 22, 2026: Police encountered and arrested Marcella Black Dog.
Legal Context
The charges filed against the suspect follow established legal thresholds for assaulting law enforcement officers in Montana. The case reflects broader local efforts to prosecute physical attacks on first responders as serious felony offenses.
The arrest occurred near the Travelodge Inn, and residents should remain aware of increased police activity during such investigations. No specific safety advisories were issued for the general public following the suspect's detention.
The takeaway
The incident serves as a reminder of the volatility inherent in policing minor trespassing complaints. Officials noted the suspect admitted to using methamphetamine and consuming vodka prior to the encounter.
Further reading
Learn more about local law enforcement efforts in the Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Z100.
