Kalispell man wanted in gunfire, vandalism spree
MATT BALDWIN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 7 months, 1 week AGO
Hagadone Media Montana REGIONAL MANAGING EDITOR Matt Baldwin is the regional editor for Hagadone Media Montana, where he helps guide coverage across eight newspapers throughout Northwest Montana. Under his leadership, the Daily Inter Lake received the Montana Newspaper Association’s Sam Gilluly Best Daily Newspaper in Montana Award and the General Excellence Award in 2024 and 2025. A graduate of the University of Montana School of Journalism, Baldwin has called Montana home for nearly 30 years. He and his wife, Sadie, have three daughters. He can be reached at 406‑758‑4447 or [email protected]. IMPACT: Baldwin’s work helps ensure Northwest Montana residents stay connected to their communities and informed about the issues that shape their everyday lives. | September 10, 2025 6:00 PM
Authorities have identified a suspect in connection with a series of gunfire incidents and property damage reported near East Idaho Street in Kalispell earlier this week.
A felony arrest warrant was issued Wednesday for Brian Werner, 53, of Kalispell, on charges of criminal endangerment and criminal mischief. Werner remains at large.
He is suspected of vandalizing more than 20 vehicles, slashing tires and discharging a firearm multiple times in Kalispell between late Sunday night and early Monday morning, according to a news release from Police Chief Jordan Venezio. At least two buildings and one vehicle were struck by gunfire.
“Fortunately, no injuries have been reported,” Venezio said.
Several Kalispell police officers were stationed at the Parkline Towers Apartments on Monday morning following a large overnight police presence.
During the investigation, detectives obtained multiple search warrants, reviewed surveillance footage and collected other evidence from the scene. A vehicle and several firearms were also seized, Venezio said.
Authorities believe Werner may have left the area. Anyone with information about his whereabouts or who may have witnessed the incidents is urged to contact the Kalispell Police Department at 406-758-7780.
ARTICLES BY MATT BALDWIN
Forest officials assess effects of windfall
Describing areas forests as a game of pick-up sticks following last winter's severe windstorms, Forest Service officials say a difficult summer of trail work lies ahead.
Northwest Montana wraps up record warm winter
West Glacier recorded its warmest winter in more than 75 years, finishing the 2025-26 season with an average daily temperature 6.6 degrees above normal.
Whitefish Mountain Resort closes season with steady visitation despite low snowfall
Overcoming one of the warmest winters in decades, Whitefish Mountain Resort ended its 2025-26 ski season Sunday as scheduled.