ANACONDA, Mont. — A small Montana town is in shock following a violent shooting at a local bar that left four people dead. Authorities have identified the suspect as Michael Paul Brown, a 42-year-old Army veteran who fled the scene and is now the target of an extensive manhunt.
The incident occurred on August 1, 2025, at The Owl Bar, a popular establishment in Anaconda. Witnesses report that Brown entered the bar shortly before 10:30 a.m. and opened fire with a rifle, striking multiple victims. Among those killed were three patrons and a bartender, aged between 59 and 74. According to officials, Brown likely had connections to the victims.
Brown, who resided near The Owl Bar, has a background in the military. He served in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Iraq from 2001 to 2005 before completing his service in the Montana National Guard. Local bar owner Shane Charles revealed that Brown had struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and mental health challenges, describing him as a considerate person when he was compliant with his medication.
The shooting prompted a rapid response from local law enforcement, who swiftly launched a manhunt after Brown escaped in a white pickup truck. Authorities later discovered Brown discarded some of his belongings, reportedly exchanging his clothing for garments obtained from a stolen vehicle nearby, which had camping gear inside.
As the search intensified, investigators released images of Brown, showing him in minimal clothing shortly after the shooting. State Attorney General Austin Knudsen has indicated that officials believe Brown may be hiding in the mountainous terrain surrounding Anaconda.
Law enforcement agencies are working diligently to apprehend the suspect, utilizing various resources and offering a $7,500 reward for information leading to his capture. Residents in Anaconda and nearby areas were initially advised to remain indoors while authorities conducted their search operations.
Despite concerns regarding Brown’s potential state of mind, officials maintain that he is likely armed and could pose a significant threat. The community remains on high alert as investigators pursue tips and leads that could bring a resolution to this tragic and alarming situation.