Missoula Police Nab Duo Behind a Walmart Car Theft

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On March 21, 2026, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a Missoula Police Department Officer was dispatched to the Walmart at 4000 Highway 93 South for a report of a stolen vehicle. Upon arrival, the officer contacted the vehicle’s owners, who explained that they had left their gray 2005 Honda Accord unlocked in the parking lot with the key left inside.  

Wal-Mart staff provided surveillance video and images of the suspects, and an officer disseminated those images to patrol units. The officer completed a stolen-vehicle form and entered the stolen vehicle into NCIC.  

Another officer recognized the suspects as 38-year-old Tara Bixby and 37-year-old Zane Gobert based on the surveillance images. The officer was familiar with both based on an interaction the night prior, where they were observed prowling vehicles in the area of River Street and California Street.  

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Both individuals were known to be unhoused, so the officer contacted the Poverello Center and learned that Bixby was checked in to stay at the shelter that evening, but was not currently there. The officer asked the POV staff to notify law enforcement if Bixby returned to the facility.  

At approximately 9:45 p.m., a POV employee called dispatch to inform them that Bixby had returned. An officer arrived at the POV and observed the stolen Honda Accord parked in a parking spot near the entrance. The officer confirmed the license plate matched that of the stolen Honda Accord. 

The officer activated his emergency lights and parked behind the stolen vehicle. Bixby quickly exited the passenger side, carrying a bag. The officer quickly exited his patrol vehicle and drew his firearm, pointing it at Bixby and giving her commands. Bixby failed to follow commands and placed her items on the hood of the officer’s patrol vehicle.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

At the same time, Gobert stuck his head out of the driver’s window despite being given commands to remain inside. Gobert was commanded to place his hands outside the window, but exited the car instead. Gobert was then given commands to face away from the officer and place his hands on his head.  

Gobert repeatedly moved his hands toward his waistband while ignoring commands, causing the officer to draw his Taser as he awaited the arrival of backup units. Once additional officers arrived, Bixby and Gobert were both taken into custody without further incident. Then they were transferred to the Missoula County Detention Facility. Bixby and Gobert are both charged with felony theft of property of a light vehicle.  

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