URGENT UPDATE: A massive search is underway in the mountains of western Montana for Michael Paul Brown, a military veteran suspected of shooting and killing four people at the Owl Bar in Anaconda early on July 15, 2023. Authorities confirmed Brown fled the scene in a white pickup truck, which he abandoned before disappearing from sight.
Law enforcement officials, led by Lee Johnson of the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, are urging local residents to stay indoors and remain vigilant. Johnson emphasized that Brown is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
Witnesses reported hearing gunfire around 1:30 AM as Brown opened fire inside the bar, where he reportedly knew all of the victims. The bartender and three patrons were killed during the rampage, though specific details about their identities are being withheld until families are notified.
“This is a small tight-knit community that has been harmed by the heinous actions of one individual who does not represent what this community or Montanans stand for,” Johnson stated.
Brown, 45, is a former U.S. Army armor crewman who served from 2001 to 2005 and deployed to Iraq. He later joined the Montana National Guard until 2009. According to family members, he has struggled with mental health issues for years, prompting calls for help that went unanswered.
His niece, Clare Boyle, described her uncle’s condition in a poignant Facebook message, stating, “This isn’t just a drunk/high man going wild. It’s a sick man who doesn’t know who he is sometimes.”
As search efforts intensified, authorities utilized both ground and air resources. Helicopters surveyed the rugged terrain while officers combed through the Stumptown Road area, locking down access to prevent Brown from escaping. Residents were advised to stay indoors amid fears of further violence.
Local business owners quickly reacted, locking their doors and keeping customers inside as news of the shooting spread. The owner of the Firefly Café shared that she secured her establishment after receiving alarming alerts from friends.
Anaconda, a small town with a population of approximately 9,000, is nestled in the mountains and has a history dating back to the 1800s. The community, which is still reeling from this tragedy, is now on high alert as the search for Brown continues.
Authorities plan to release the names of the victims once all families have been informed. Meanwhile, police chief Bill Sather reassured the public that while businesses could reopen, caution remains paramount until Brown is apprehended.
This developing situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Residents are urged to report any sightings of Brown immediately to law enforcement.
