Authorities in Montana are actively searching for Michael Paul Brown, the suspect in a tragic shooting that left four people dead at the Owl Bar in Anaconda on March 10, 2023. Law enforcement officials have warned that Brown may return to the area, increasing concerns for public safety. During a news briefing on March 12, Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen described Brown as “an unstable individual” and emphasized the seriousness of the situation.
Brown is suspected of walking into the bar around 10:30 a.m. and opening fire, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, all from Anaconda. The victims have been identified as 64-year-old Nancy Lauretta Kelly, who worked as a bartender, along with patrons 59-year-old Daniel Edwin Ballie, 70-year-old David Allen Leach, and 74-year-old Tony Wayne Palm.
Knudsen reiterated to the public that Brown is considered “armed and extremely dangerous.” He urged anyone who might see Brown to contact authorities immediately. A reward of $7,500 is being offered for information leading to his capture.
While the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, Knudsen confirmed that Brown was a regular patron at the Owl Bar, living nearby. “I think it’s likely that he knew the bartender and these patrons, which makes this even more heinous,” Knudsen stated. Reports indicate that Brown used a rifle during the incident and has access to firearms.
The manhunt has intensified since the shooting, with law enforcement focusing their search on areas around Stumptown Road and expanding to Barker Lake. Brown reportedly fled the scene wearing a tie-dye shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana. However, a recently released photo shows him shortly after the shooting, apparently reduced to just his boxers. Knudsen mentioned that Brown disposed of some belongings but managed to find a stolen vehicle with additional clothing, suggesting he is now fully clothed.
While Knudsen did not dismiss the possibility of Brown having harmed himself, he stated that authorities are proceeding under the assumption that he is alive and poses a significant threat. Local law enforcement is familiar with Brown, who has a criminal history.
As the search continues, Knudsen indicated that further arrests may be forthcoming. Friends of Brown reported that he has a history of mental health challenges. Shane Charles, the owner of a local bar and an acquaintance of Brown, noted, “Mike was a great guy when he was on his meds. He did have some mental health problems.”
Brown served in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2005 and was deployed in Iraq from 2004 to 2005, later joining the Montana National Guard until 2009. His niece, Clare Boyle, also expressed concerns regarding his mental health issues, as reported by The Associated Press.
As authorities continue their efforts to locate Brown, they remind the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings to the appropriate channels.
