Wanted Man Elbows MHP Trooper in the Nose in Missoula

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On September 12, 2023, Montana Highway Patrol troopers responded to a 911 caller’s report that a pedestrian was walking on the shoulder of HWY 93 at approximately 1:00 a.m., in dark clothing and creating a hazard. According to court documents, there is a walking path approximately 20 feet off the roadway, but the pedestrian was not on it.  

A trooper pulled up to the shoulder and the male began to walk away. The trooper asked the male to come to his vehicle. The male said he was walking to a light to retrieve his lighter that he left there while smoking.  

He said his name was Robbie Rilling Williams. Missoula County Dispatch informed the trooper that the man was 35-year-old Rilling Robert Williams and that he had multiple warrants out for his arrest. The trooper told Williams he had warrants for his arrest and went to grab Williams’ arm to place him in custody. Williams immediately pulled his hands away and went on the fight.  

Williams moved away from the trooper’s car, swung his right elbow back, and struck the trooper in the nose. The trooper bear hugged Williams and took him to the ground. Another trooper and a sheriff’s deputy assisted as Williams continued to try to get up. Williams continued to struggle, and it took all three officers to control Williams' legs and body to restrain him.  

During the altercation, the trooper suffered scratches to both elbows, tears to the knees of his pants, and a bloody nose. His gun holster was also broken. At the jail, the trooper was informed by jail staff that a white crystal-like substance was found in Williams’ property and a glass pipe. The trooper NIK tested the substance and it returned positive for methamphetamine.  

Williams is currently being charged with felony assault on a peace officer and felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs. This case was filed directly to Missoula District Court and Williams’ bond was set at $50,000. 

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