Man Points Stolen Pistol at Woman Near a Missoula Shopping Center

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) – On September 26, 2024, Missoula Police Department Officers were dispatched to the area of the Trempers shopping center for a report of an assault with a weapon. The complainant, Jane Doe, advised that a male pointed a silver handgun at her. Jane Doe provided a description of the male and noted he was in possession of a bicycle.  

Officers responded to the area and located a male who matched the description, standing next to a bicycle in a parking lot on Brooks Street. Officers approached the male, later identified as 27-year-old Gavin Crandall, with duty weapons out in the low-ready position due to safety concerns. While approaching Crandall, an officer observed the muzzle of a silver pistol exposed in Crandall’s waistband. 

After detaining Crandall, an officer retrieved the pistol from Crandall’s person. According to court documents, the pistol was determined to be a silver Smith & Wesson 9 Tactical handgun that was loaded with a 10-round magazine.  

Crandall advised, that before law enforcement arrival, he got into a brief verbal dispute with a passing vehicle while walking his bicycle on the sidewalk. Immediately following the dispute, he said he adjusted his concealed handgun in his waistband. Crandall denied removing the gun or pointing it at anyone.  

Law enforcement determined the handgun found on Crandall had been reported stolen on September 20. When asked about how he came in possession of the handgun, Crandall made several inconsistent and contradictory statements.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Law enforcement recontacted Jane Doe, who arrived at the scene and confirmed Crandall was the individual who pointed the handgun at her. Crandall was arrested and transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility. Crandall had a black backpack in his possession that was later inventory searched at the Missoula Police Station. The backpack contained 33 rounds of ammunition and one additional black magazine.  

A detective spoke to Jane Doe who said Crandall was yelling while her windows were up and then pointed a silver pistol at her. Jane Doe reported she was scared and sat motionless, freezing, for fear if she did anything he would shoot her. 

Crandall is currently being charged with felony assault with a weapon and theft. His bond was set at $25,000. 

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