UPDATE: 9:35 p.m. - September 15, 2025
CRESTON - The Flathead County Sheriff's Office has identified the suspect in custody as Joseph Castell, who had an active felony warrant of Powell County for avoiding probation.
Deputies did not initially see where Castell fled on foot during the chase, so additional resources — including Two Bear Air, drone support and patrol units — were brought in to search the area.
The Northwest Montana SWAT Team arrived and surrounded a home where Castell was located. FCSO said he surrendered without further incident.
(second report: 6 p.m. - September 15, 2025)
Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino tells MTN News that the suspect has been taken into custody.
(first report: 5:26 p.m. - September 15, 2025)
Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino is asking the public to avoid the area of Foothill Road near Creston as an active SWAT situation is underway.
Sheriff Heino tells MTN News that a suspect wanted with multiple warrants led law enforcement on a car chase around 2 p.m. Monday.
Spike strips were deployed, and the suspect ran away from the vehicle on foot and barricaded himself inside a residence.
Sheriff Heino said SWAT negotiations are underway.
We will update this story when more information becomes available.
