ANACONDA, MONTANA—Manhunt Underway After Armed Forces Veteran Kills Four in Mass Shooting at Local Bar

Anaconda, Montana — A quiet Friday morning in the small mining town of Anaconda turned into a nightmare as authorities confirmed a deadly mass shooting at The Owl Bar, leaving four people dead and an entire community in mourning. Law enforcement agencies have launched an urgent manhunt for 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, an Army veteran and former National Guardsman, who is now the prime suspect in one of Montana’s deadliest shootings in recent memory.

Tragedy Strikes at Local Gathering Spot

The shooting occurred just after 9:00 a.m. on August 1, 2025, at The Owl Bar, a well-known establishment frequented by locals. According to eyewitness reports, Brown walked in calmly before suddenly opening fire, fatally shooting the bartender and three patrons before fleeing the scene.

“He came in like he was just grabbing a drink,” said one witness who narrowly escaped. “Then everything changed in seconds.”

Suspect on the Run: Armed, Trained, and Dangerous

After the massacre, Brown fled in a white Ford F-150, which was later found abandoned and covered in mud off Stumptown Road—a desolate, forested area west of Anaconda. Authorities believe Brown exited the vehicle and disappeared into the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest—an area he knows well.

Law enforcement officials warn that Brown, a former combat veteran with survivalist training, may be heavily armed and capable of evading capture for an extended period.

“We are dealing with a highly trained individual who is familiar with both the terrain and tactical operations,” said Sheriff Dan Lacey. “He is to be considered extremely dangerous. Do not approach him under any circumstance.”

Massive Manhunt Engulfs Montana Wilderness

Local, state, and federal law enforcement have combined efforts in what is being described as one of the most intensive manhunts in Montana history. Tactical response units, tracking dogs, helicopters, and infrared surveillance are currently sweeping the region.

The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and Montana Department of Criminal Investigation are assisting the Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Sheriff’s Office in the search, combing through dense forests, ravines, and abandoned mining tunnels.

Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are being urged to avoid the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest entirely until the suspect is apprehended.

Possible Motive and Mental Health Concerns

While the exact motive remains unclear, sources close to the investigation say Brown may have harbored a personal grudge against one of the victims. Family members have also confirmed that Brown has battled severe mental health issues since returning from Iraq.

“He wasn’t the same after he came back,” said one relative. “He struggled, and we tried to get him help.”

Community in Shock and Grief

As news of the tragedy spread, the town of Anaconda was left stunned. Makeshift memorials have appeared outside The Owl Bar, and local churches have opened their doors for prayer and counseling.

“These were good, hardworking people. Friends. Family,” said longtime resident Joe Hansen. “We’ve lost more than lives today—we’ve lost our sense of peace.”

Governor Greg Gianforte has been briefed on the situation and praised the swift coordination of law enforcement. He also urged all Montanans to remain vigilant.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” Gianforte said in a statement. “Our prayers are with the families affected, and we are deploying every available resource to bring the suspect to justice.”

What to Do If You See the Suspect

Residents are asked to report any suspicious activity by calling 911 immediately. Authorities stress not to engage with or approach Michael Paul Brown, who remains at large as of this report.

The investigation is ongoing. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.