Authorities in Montana are intensifying their search for Michael Paul Brown, a man accused of fatally shooting four individuals at The Owl Bar in Anaconda on March 15, 2024. Following the incident, parts of the nearby Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest were closed as law enforcement agencies escalated their pursuit of the suspect, who was last spotted fleeing the scene.
Brown, an Army veteran, was captured on security footage leaving the bar shortly after the shooting occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Friday. Investigators have indicated that he was last seen in the Stump Town area, west of Anaconda. In response to the ongoing threat, authorities have established a lockdown around Barker Lake and surrounding regions, with local, state, and federal agencies collaborating in the search efforts via both land and air.
Local law enforcement has issued warnings regarding Brown, stating he is “armed and extremely dangerous.” Anaconda Deer-Lodge County Chief, Bill Sather, reassured the public to maintain their daily activities but urged caution. He advised residents to report any sightings of Brown by calling emergency services.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The circumstances leading to the shooting remain unclear. According to the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, the bar is currently listed as “temporarily closed.” Cassandra Dutra, a bartender at The Owl Bar, described her shock and sadness over the incident. She noted that Brown was a frequent visitor who lived next door but did not engage deeply with other patrons.
Dutra, who was not on duty during the shooting, recounted hearing noises she initially attributed to nearby construction. Only after learning of the shooting did she realize the severity of the situation. She expressed disbelief that anyone could be hurt in what she characterized as a typically peaceful environment.
The owner of The Owl Bar, David Gwerder, stated he was unaware of any prior conflicts involving Brown. “He knew everybody that was in that bar. I guarantee you that,” Gwerder said, reflecting on the shock of the event.
Background on the Suspect and Ongoing Search Efforts
Brown served in the U.S. Army from January 2001 to May 2005, including a deployment to Iraq. After his military service, he joined the Montana National Guard until March 2009. His niece, Clare Boyle, disclosed that Brown faced mental health challenges following his service and struggled with the loss of his parents. She expressed her sorrow for the victims’ families, indicating that five families have been “destroyed” by this tragedy.
Search operations are focused on the area surrounding Barker Lake, where Brown is believed to have fled. Local resident Dan Haffey, a former fire foreman, commented on the rugged terrain, stating, “There’s a thousand places to hide on that mountain.” Residents have reported witnessing extensive helicopter searches and hearing sirens in the area as law enforcement continues to investigate.
After the shooting, a white Ford F-150 truck associated with Brown was located, but he was not found in or around the vehicle. The investigation has garnered support from several agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Authorities have confirmed the identities of the four victims, but their names have not yet been released pending notification of their families. As the manhunt continues, the community remains on high alert, grappling with the aftermath of a tragic event that has left a profound impact on the usually tranquil town of Anaconda.
