Authorities in Montana continue to search for Michael Paul Brown, the suspect accused of a deadly shooting that claimed four lives at the Owl Bar in Anaconda on March 24, 2023. During a news briefing on Sunday, Austin Knudsen, Montana’s Attorney General, alerted the public to the possibility that Brown may return to the area, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Knudsen described Brown as “an unstable individual, who walked in and murdered four people in cold blood for no reason whatsoever.” He urged the community to remain cautious, reiterating that Brown is considered “armed and extremely dangerous.” Authorities are offering a reward of $7,500 for any information on Brown’s whereabouts.
The victims of the shooting have been identified as Nancy Lauretta Kelly, 64, the bartender, and three patrons: Daniel Edwin Ballie, 59, David Allen Leach, 70, and Tony Wayne Palm, 74. All were residents of Anaconda. Knudsen stated that the motive behind the shooting is still under investigation but confirmed that Brown was a regular at the bar, living nearby.
“I think it’s likely that he knew the bartender and these patrons, which makes this even more heinous,” Knudsen added. The shooting, which occurred around 10:30 a.m., involved the use of a rifle, with authorities confirming that Brown had access to firearms.
The manhunt for Brown commenced immediately following the shooting. Witnesses reported that he fled the scene wearing a tie-dye shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana. However, a subsequent photograph released by the Montana Department of Justice showed him fleeing in only his boxers shortly after the incident. Knudsen indicated that this image was taken “relatively soon” after the shooting, noting that Brown had discarded some personal items and clothing.
According to Knudsen, Brown managed to acquire a stolen vehicle containing some clothing and is now believed to be fully clothed. While Knudsen did not dismiss the possibility of Brown having committed suicide, he affirmed that authorities are operating under the assumption that he is alive, armed, and dangerous.
Brown is known to local law enforcement and has a prior criminal record. Anyone who spots him is urged to contact authorities at 1-877-wanted2.
As the search continues, Knudsen mentioned that further arrests could occur as the investigation progresses. The multi-agency search has focused on the area off Stumptown Road, which has expanded to include the vicinity of Barker Lake.
Friends of Brown have noted his struggles with mental health issues. Shane Charles, a bar owner and childhood friend from Anaconda, told NBC News that Brown has faced challenges with post-traumatic stress disorder. “Mike was a great guy when he was on his meds. He did have some mental health problems,” Charles stated. Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, also confirmed his ongoing struggles with mental health, as reported by The Associated Press.
Brown served in the Army from 2001 to 2005 and was deployed in Iraq from 2004 to 2005. He also spent time in the Montana National Guard from 2006 to 2009, according to U.S. Army spokesperson Steve Warren.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on high alert. Authorities continue their efforts to locate Michael Paul Brown and ensure public safety in Anaconda and surrounding areas.
