COEUR d’ALENE — A man accused of firing more than 40 rounds along Interstate 90 last December was placed on probation in what the judge called a “fair resolution” to an unusual case.

Wyatt J. Armstrong, 23, of Coeur d’Alene, pleaded guilty in April to discharging a firearm at an occupied vehicle, a felony. 

First District Judge Barbara Buchanan sentenced Armstrong on Tuesday to five years in prison, then suspended the sentence and placed Armstrong on supervised probation for three years, in line with the state’s recommendation. Armstrong must also complete 100 hours of community service. 

Prosecuting attorney Molly Nivison said the sentence her office recommended was “appropriate, albeit unusual,” given that the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office typically takes a “zero-tolerance” approach to cases involving gun violence. 

The night of Dec. 9, 2024, multiple law enforcement agencies responded to reports of shots fired from a pickup truck parked in the median on I-90 near Milepost 0. 

Witnesses told police that a man who was near the vehicle, later identified as Armstrong, was firing a rifle toward the interstate as vehicles were driving by. But security footage appeared to show Armstrong aiming at the ground, his attorney said in court Tuesday. Further investigation revealed that a bullet that hit a semi truck during the incident could have ricocheted off the ground, Nivison said. 

No one was injured, according to Idaho State Police. 

If the case went to trial, Nivison estimated that Armstrong had a “50/50 shot” at acquittal. 

“This case could have been interpreted by a jury either way,” she said. 

At the scene, police detained Armstrong, who was “extremely distraught and emotional,” according to court records. He told police he fired 42 rounds in total. Investigators located 41 shell casings in all. 

Armstrong’s attorney, Michael Palmer, told the court that, on the night of the shooting, his client was experiencing a mental health crisis that was exacerbated by alcohol and a chronic health condition. Defense counsel said Armstrong had planned to drive to Rosalia, Wash., to end his life. 

“As an act of God or a lottery-winning level stroke of luck, his car broke down,” Palmer said. 

Armstrong stopped in the median and “had a breakdown,” Palmer said, shooting at his own vehicle before getting out of the truck and shooting at the ground. 

Prosecutors originally charged Armstrong with discharging a firearm at an occupied vehicle and attempting to discharge a firearm at an occupied vehicle, both felonies, as well as with driving under the influence, disturbing the peace and exhibition or use of a deadly weapon, all misdemeanors. In exchange for Armstrong’s guilty plea, prosecutors later dismissed all but one charge. 

Before receiving his sentence, Armstrong expressed gratitude for the police officers who responded to the scene. 

In the seven months since the incident, Armstrong said he has sought counseling and received support from friends and family, as well as from his church community. 

“I have realized that my life has purpose and I am grateful for the second chance,” he told the court. 

Help is available to North Idaho residents who are struggling with mental illness or thoughts of suicide.   

The North Idaho Crisis Center at 2301 Ironwood Place in Coeur d’Alene offers free, confidential help for people who are having a mental health crisis or substance abuse problems. 

The center is open 24/7. No referral is necessary. Call 208-625-4884.   

Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988.