Missoula police investigate violent assault at Poverello Center

On August 31, 2026, a series of disturbances occurred at and near the Poverello Center in Missoula, Montana, culminating in a violent assault on a man identified as John Doe.

Witnesses and staff reported that Doe had been involved in multiple altercations throughout the day at a park, the center's courtyard, and the parking lot. One earlier incident involved 36-year-old Derek Fontes assaulting Doe in the parking lot. During that encounter, Doe declined medical attention and refused to participate in the investigation. Staff noted that Doe was under a 30-day exclusion from the property.

Shortly after 7:00 p.m., police responded to reports of an assault on West Broadway. Officers discovered Doe lying in a traffic lane with significant facial and head lacerations, heavy bleeding, and severe swelling. A Poverello Center employee identified Fontes as the assailant, who reportedly fled toward North California Street. Officers subsequently located Fontes on California Street.