Woman arrested in connection with Missoula fire at former restaurant

The Missoula Police Department has arrested 34-year-old Amy Birk on arson charges related to a recent structure fire at the former HuHot building on Brooks Street. This arrest followed a collaborative investigation involving arson-trained detectives and officials from the Missoula Fire Department.
The fire was determined to have originated from a shed on March 19th. As part of the investigation, detectives reviewed surveillance footage that captured a suspect near the scene of the fire. An off-duty police officer later spotted a woman resembling the suspect and reported her to detectives, prompting further investigation.
After being identified, Birk was interviewed by detectives and subsequently booked into the Missoula County Detention Facility. The prompt actions of law enforcement, alongside community assistance, played a crucial role in her swift apprehension.
The Missoula Police Department expressed their appreciation for the community's help, particularly in providing the surveillance footage that aided in identifying the suspect quickly.
For those interested, the surveillance video capturing crucial moments related to the incident is available for viewing.