Man threatens stabbing over a cigarette

Michael Leslie Shannon Willis, 42, is in jail in Flathead County awaiting arraignment for felony assault charges after allegedly threatening to stab a man who wouldn’t let him bum a cigarette.

According to court documents, Willis was arrested Saturday afternoon by Kalispell Police at a gas station on East Idaho Street. Willis’ alleged victim told police that Willis approached him and asked for a cigarette. The victim told Willis that he didn’t have a cigarette because he didn’t smoke.

Willis became upset, allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to stab the victim. Police found a knife in Willis’ pocket.

Willis has been charged with felony assault with a weapon, which is punishable by 20 years in Montana State Prison and a $50,000 fine. Willis is set to be arraigned on Oct. 1.

Reporter Megan Strickland may be reached at 758-4459 or by email at mstrickland@dailyinterlake.com.