A Lincoln County man has been charged with aggravated assault after allegedly running over a cyclist near Rexford.
Brian Norvell, 28, was arrested on May 9 after he allegedly ran down 21-year-old Luca Johnson, who was biking on Highway 37. According to the Lincoln County Jail roster, Norvell has been charged with aggravated assault and violating probation.
Details of the case are limited because a Lincoln County District Court judge issued a gag order in the case barring law enforcement or prosecutors from discussing it.
Prior to the gag order, Sheriff Roby Bowe said the incident occurred shortly after 7 p.m. on May 9.
According to interviews and initial evidence, Norvell allegedly drove past Johnson at least twice before turning his vehicle around and hitting the cyclist from behind. Norvell allegedly stopped the vehicle, took Johnson’s wallet and then drove off. Norvell then allegedly ditched his vehicle on Highway 37. Law enforcement found Norvell soon after and placed him under arrest.
If convicted, Norvell could face up to 20 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
Johnson suffered a skull fracture and multiple broken bones and had to be airlifted to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Friends and family have been raising money to cover Johnson’s medical bills. For more information, visit www.gofundme.com/23usc5w.