Three Men Attacked Over Beer - One Hospitalized

Three men walking home after buying beer at a convenience store were attacked and beaten early Saturday morning, January 18, leaving one man seriously injured.

Detective Sergeant Scott Pastian with the Missoula Police Department said the robbery and assault took place at about 2 a.m. near the intersection of Hazel and South 2nd Streets.

"They had just purchased some beer from a local convenience store and were walking home when they were attacked by three other unknown males who took their beer," Pastian said. "One of the victims suffered a serious facial injury, which included an orbital fracture and a broken nose. He was transported to St. Patrick Hospital for treatment."

Pastian said the victims did not get a good look at their attackers, but did provide a partial description.

"They all appeared to be between five foot eight and five foot ten inches tall, weighing between 150 and 170 pounds," Pastian said. "One of them may have been wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, and one was wearing a Carhartt style jacket. The three thought at least one of the male suspects may have been Native American."

The condition of the injured man is not known.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Missoula Police Department at 552-6300, or Missoula Crimestoppers at 721-44-44.