Melissa Ruth Arnold
Arnold, circa 2018; Arnold's tattoo
- Missing Since 02/19/2018
- Missing From Missoula, Montana
- Classification Endangered Missing
- Sex Female
- Race White
- Date of Birth 08/24/1980 (42)
- Age 37 years old
- Height and Weight 5'2, 102 - 140 pounds
- Distinguishing Characteristics Caucasian female. Sandy blonde hair, blue eyes. Arnold's nickname is Mel, and she may use the last names Dougherty and/or Smith. She has a pierced lower lip, pierced ears and a tattoo on her upper arm. A photo of the tattoo is posted with this case summary.
Details of Disappearance
Arnold was last seen at the Poverello Center, a homeless shelter in Missoula, Montana, during the daytime on February 19, 2018. She has never been heard from again.
She was homeless at the time of her disappearance, but maintained semi-regular contact with her father, who helped with some of her needs. Her father reported her missing after several weeks passed without his hearing from her.
In June 2022, Arnold's wallet, identification, pants and knife were found in the vicinity of Dolan Flats and the Clark Fork River Lodge near St. Regis, Montana. Little information is available in her case.
Investigating Agency
- Missoula Police Department 406-552-6300
Updated 3 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated July 16, 2022; two pictures added, distinguishing characteristics and details of disappearance updated.