First, the manhunt. Law enforcement is searching for a former militia leader who shot at Missoula County Sheriff’s deputies on Sunday and then disappeared into the mountains west of Lolo.
The suspect is David Burgert, who is on federal and state probation
and who, a decade ago, led the right-wing militant group called Project 7. He was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison in 2004.
Named for the number “7″ on Flathead County license plates, Project 7 was a group that armed itself and allegedly plotted to assassinate local officials, then go to war with the National Guard and overthrow the federal government.
Burgert served time in the Federal Bureau of Prisons on weapons charges before being released on probation. Prior to his sentencing, he was diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder.
“This a very dangerous person,” said Missoula County Undersheriff Mike Dominick. “I believe he wouldn’t hesitate to shoot at anyone or kidnap somebody to get their rigs.”
We’ll update, at least if anything happens today. Which brings me to the message:
I’ll be out of town for most of June, during which time I’ll be updating sporadically at best. Cops and Courts isn’t going away, it’s just taking a little break while I – among other things — attend a program called Journalist Law School at Loyola Law School that should be enormously useful in covering this beat.
So, please keep checking back and know that in July, we’ll be back in full swing!
Gwen Florio
Look, How is it that a guy shot at cops and got away after the cops returned fire? Lets, break this down. A guy that has many weapons and is a militia leader shoots at the police and doesn’t at least injure a cop? And then this 47 year old fat guy managed to dodge the police bullets on their return fire and leaves the seen by running off into the woods!! There are two elements here that just doesn’t add up. Either way you slice it the police look like morons!!
The truth is the guy was perhaps scared because of having so many guns in his car and was looking for a place to bailout and run. So, the police made up some BS story to justify a full search by outside agencies. So, instead of these police looking like morons alone they had more cops join in to take down some 47 year old fat guy that’s just trying to keep from getting caught. No one has gotten hurt or harassed but this poor stupid 47 year old fat guy! Just set out a 6 pack of beer and you’ll have him! Otherwise, stop involving other police agencies on a moronic quest after a 47 year old fat guy (derelict!!)!!
Ms. Florio has the potential and some real talent. The Missoulian Frat House/Sorority level of objective reporting is ruining her career. Hoping this program will restore her sense of purpose and vision and dedication.