Statement from Missoula Police Department Regarding Brendon Galbreath Gatherings
If you haven't been following the story of Brendon Galbreath, here's what's happening. According to the initial police report, on the morning of Thursday, August 12th, 21-year-old Brendon was suspected of driving under the influence and cops tried to pull him over, this resulted in a pursuit through downtown which ended near Sacajawea Park. The report says that Brendon pulled a gun, which allegedly went off inside the vehicle, and an officer returned fire, hitting the vehicle. Police began medical aid, EMS transported Brendon to St. Pats, where he passed away from his injuries.
Brendon's family is from Browning, he was a member of the Blackfeet Nation, and according to family, remembered as an incredibly smart young man, who graduated with honors from Browning High School in 2018 and went on to study engineering at UCLA. As many young people and college students did during the pandemic, Brendon moved home to Missoula to be closer to his family during the difficult time.
According to an article in the Great Falls Tribune, Brendon's brother says the family has received conflicting information from police regarding an "officer involved shooting" and a "suicide," which has left his family "hurt and confused." Community members who support the family in demanding answers held a rally at Sacajawea Park on Thursday, saying that the family's desire to view dashcam and bodycam footage, and simply be treated with respect, is what they deserve.
To the family and friends of this young man, I would personally recommend staying focused and diligent in finding answers, and avoid reading ridiculous social media comments. Your heart is already hurting, no need to read what the trolls have to say.
Today, Friday, August 20th, City of Missoula Police responded to requests for a statement regarding the gatherings to support Brendon's family, which they posted on Facebook.
This case is still under investigation by the Montana Department of Justice. You can see the full statement from the Missoula Police Department below.