Man Killed and Deputy Injured in Shootout West of Great Falls

On February 23rd, around 4:46 pm, a deputy from Cascade County went to 77 Wexford Lane to execute a search warrant involving Pamela Polejewski. This was a criminal contempt warrant for again being in possession of animals which is in violation of her court order of the previous case according to Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter at a press conference. “A Cascade County Sheriff Deputy went out to the address as they act as county humane officers, to hopefully safely secure these animals and do whatever deemed appropriate in this manner,” stated Sheriff Slaughter during the press conference. While the first deputy was on the scene, a second deputy was en route with the appropriate search warrant and paperwork, according to Sheriff Slaughter. The deputy interacted with Michael Lee Hanson who resided at 77 Wexford Lane with Pamela Polejewski. During that interaction, Michael Hanson pulled out a firearm. The deputy then pulled his firearm and a gun battle ensued. The deputy was shot in the shoulder, returned fire, and shot and killed suspect Michael Hanson. The deputy was transported by ambulance to Benefis Hospital. “He was treated, stable, and was released at approximately 8 pm and will be on standard administrative leave,” explained Sheriff Slaughter. The Division of Criminal Investigations with the state of Montana is a leading investigation organization on this case, and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office is the coroner. Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki stated that his office would continue to prosecute the case against Polejewski. An autopsy will be conducted, and a coroner’s inquest will be scheduled. Sheriff Jesse Slaughter stated that there will likely be updates as time goes on.