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Man suspected of being behind spate of gunfire, vandalism in Kalispell arrested in Oregon

JACK UNDERHILL | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 11 months, 1 week AGO
by JACK UNDERHILL
KALISPELL GOVERNMENT, HOUSING AND TRANSPORTATION REPORTER Jack Underhill covers Kalispell city government, housing and transportation for the Daily Inter Lake. His reporting focuses on how local policy decisions affect residents and the rapidly growing Flathead Valley. Underhill has reported on housing challenges, infrastructure issues and regional service providers across Montana. His work also includes accountability reporting on complex community issues and public institutions. Originally from Massachusetts, Underhill graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst with a degree in Journalism before joining the Inter Lake. In his free time, Underhill enjoys mountain biking around the valley, skiing up on Big Mountain or exploring Glacier National Park. IMPACT: Jack’s work helps residents understand how growth, housing and infrastructure decisions affect the future of their community. | September 16, 2025 12:39 PM

The Kalispell man accused of firing a gun and damaging property near East Idaho Street in Kalispell more than a week ago was arrested in Portland, Oregon on Monday, authorities say.  

Brian Werner, 53, was booked into Multnomah County Jail and will be extradited to Flathead County to face felony charges of criminal endangerment and criminal mischief, according to officials with the Kalispell Police Department. 

Werner also faces additional charges in Multnomah County of drunk driving, reckless driving and failure to perform the duties of a driver when property is damaged, according to police officials and jail records.  

Werner is suspected of vandalizing more than 20 vehicles, including slashing tires, and discharging a firearm multiple times in Kalispell, beginning late in the night of Sept. 7 and going into the following morning, according to Police Chief Jordan Venezio. At least two buildings and one vehicle were struck by gunfire, officials said.  

No injuries were reported, Venezio said. 

A felony arrest warrant for Werner was issued on Sept. 10.   

During the investigation, detectives secured multiple search warrants, reviewed surveillance footage, and seized a vehicle and several firearms, Venezio said.  

Reporter Jack Underhill can be reached at 758-4407 and [email protected].

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