Missoula Man High-Centers Car After Crashing Into a Wall

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On April 19, 2024, at approximately 1:51 PM, a Missoula Police Department Officer was dispatched to Kemp Street for a report of a single-vehicle crash. The officer was advised that a silver Honda Civic had hit a retaining wall and became high-centered on the wall. The male driver, later identified as 48-year-old David Guthrie, fell out of the vehicle, was lying on the ground, and was reported to be conscious but was not responsive.  

The officer made contact with Guthrie, who was sitting on the retaining wall. The officer observed Guthrie’s eyes were watery and he had a dazed expression. When asked how the crash occurred, Guthrie could not provide a response. Guthrie stated he was going to his residence but was unable to state where he had come from.  

While speaking with Guthrie, the officer noted the smell of an alcoholic beverage emanating from Guthrie’s person and noted Guthrie’s speech was slurred. According to court documents, Guthrie denied drinking or using drugs.  

The officer asked Guthrie to perform the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. While walking to begin the test, the officer noted Guthrie had difficulty standing, swayed in a circular motion, was unsteady on his feet, and stumbled as he walked. The officer held onto Guthrie’s right arm to prevent him from falling. After approximately ten feet, Guthrie fell and officers caught him before he struck his head or face on the concrete. 

The officer determined it was unsafe for Guthrie to participate in any of the tests that required walking or unassisted balance. The officer instructed Guthrie in the horizontal gaze nystagmus, where the officer observed 6/6 indicators of impairment.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

The officer read Guthrie the PAST Advisory and Guthrie stated he would “probably be over .08” and refused to provide a breath sample. Guthrie was placed under arrest and was read the Implied Consent Advisory. However, he refused to provide a blood test.  

The officer applied for and was granted a search warrant for Guthrie’s blood. The officer then transported Guthrie to St. Patrick's Hospital, where a legal blood draw was conducted. 

Guthrie is currently being charged with felony DUI and he has three prior DUI convictions. 

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