BISMARCK, N.D. – A 35-year-old Bismarck man is facing multiple felony charges following a standoff with law enforcement on the Grant Marsh Bridge last Friday. The incident, which led to a two-hour closure of the bridge and significant traffic backups, began after authorities responded to a reported pharmacy robbery. Matthew Bruhn is now accused of robbery, terrorizing, possession of a stolen vehicle, fleeing from police, and possession of a controlled substance.
The situation unfolded after officers were dispatched to the CVS Pharmacy on Highway 83 following a report that Bruhn had stolen prescription medication using a knife, according to court documents. He then allegedly fled in a stolen vehicle, initiating a pursuit that culminated on the Grant Marsh Bridge. Police utilized spike strips in an attempt to halt the vehicle, but Bruhn reportedly refused to comply with commands from law enforcement.
After approximately two hours, the West Dakota SWAT team deployed a chemical irritant, successfully prompting Bruhn to exit the vehicle and end the standoff. The Grant Marsh Bridge was closed for two hours during the incident, causing substantial traffic congestion in the area, as KX News reported.
Prosecutors have formally charged Bruhn with six felonies, outlining the severity of the allegations against him. The charges include robbery, terrorizing, possession of a stolen vehicle, fleeing from police, and possession of a controlled substance. He is currently in custody, and his bond has been set at $100,000, the Bismarck Tribune detailed.
The incident marks the latest in a series of legal troubles for Bruhn. He is also facing charges related to storage unit thefts, as KXMB/KXMC reported on January 12, 2026. This suggests a pattern of criminal activity, potentially linking him to other unsolved cases in the region.
Details of the Pharmacy Robbery and Pursuit
According to the criminal complaint, Bruhn allegedly used a knife to steal prescription medication from the CVS Pharmacy on Highway 83. The exact type of medication stolen has not been publicly released. Following the robbery, police initiated a pursuit that led to the Grant Marsh Bridge, a major transportation artery in Bismarck. The use of spike strips was intended to safely disable the stolen vehicle, but Bruhn’s refusal to cooperate prolonged the situation and necessitated the involvement of the SWAT team.
The deployment of the chemical irritant was a calculated decision by authorities to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of both Bruhn and the officers involved. The standoff caused significant disruption to traffic flow, highlighting the potential impact of such incidents on the community. The Bismarck Police Department confirmed the successful resolution of the standoff and the apprehension of Bruhn on their Facebook page.
Charges and Potential Penalties
The six felony charges against Bruhn carry significant potential penalties. Robbery, terrorizing, and possession of a controlled substance are all considered serious offenses in North Dakota, potentially resulting in lengthy prison sentences. The charges of possession of a stolen vehicle and fleeing from police further compound the severity of the case. The specific sentencing guidelines will be determined by the court based on the details of the offenses and Bruhn’s prior criminal history.
The case is currently proceeding through the court system, and Bruhn is expected to appear for a preliminary hearing in the coming weeks. Prosecutors will present evidence to establish probable cause for the charges, and Bruhn will have the opportunity to enter a plea. The outcome of the case will have a significant impact on both Bruhn and the community, underscoring the importance of public safety and the consequences of criminal behavior.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the robbery and pursuit. Further details may emerge as the case progresses, potentially revealing additional information about Bruhn’s motives and any potential accomplices. The Bismarck Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the community and will continue to pursue justice in this case.
The next step in the legal proceedings will be Bruhn’s arraignment, where he will formally enter a plea to the charges. The court will then schedule a trial date, if necessary. This case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in protecting the public and the importance of swift and decisive action in response to criminal activity. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
