Authorities in Montana are intensifying their search for Michael Paul Brown, an Army veteran accused of killing four people at The Owl Bar in Anaconda on the morning of March 15, 2024. Brown was last seen fleeing the scene shortly after the shooting, and police believe he may be hiding in the nearby Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
In response to the escalating situation, parts of the national forest were closed late Saturday as local, state, and federal agencies mobilized resources for a comprehensive search operation. Officials have identified the Stump Town area, located west of Anaconda, as a key focus in their efforts. The Montana Department of Justice has reported that search teams are conducting operations by both land and air.
Local law enforcement officials have warned the public that Brown is considered “armed and extremely dangerous.” Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Chief of Police Bill Sather urged residents to exercise caution and to contact authorities immediately if they spot the suspect. “It’s okay to go about your business in town but please use caution,” Sather stated in a social media update.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting at The Owl Bar occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m., leaving the usually peaceful community in shock. Investigators have stated that the scene has been secured, and the bar is currently listed as “temporarily closed” online. Cassandra Dutra, a bartender at the establishment, expressed her overwhelming sadness over the incident. She noted that Brown, who lived next door, often frequented the bar but was not part of the regular camaraderie among customers.
Dutra reported that she was not working during the shooting but heard noises that she initially attributed to ongoing construction outside. “I didn’t immediately panic because I just know the atmosphere in the Owl… it never occurred to me that anybody was hurt,” she said.
The owner of The Owl Bar, David Gwerder, mentioned that he was unaware of any conflicts involving Brown and patrons present at the time of the shooting. “He knew everybody that was in that bar. I guarantee you that,” Gwerder said, speculating that Brown may have “snapped” without any prior warning.
Information on the Suspect and Ongoing Search
Michael Paul Brown served in the U.S. Army from January 2001 to May 2005, where he was part of an armored vehicle crew and was deployed to Iraq. He later joined the Montana National Guard until March 2009, leaving military service as a sergeant. Information from Lt. Col. Ruth Castro, a spokesperson for the Army, confirmed these details.
Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, described her uncle as struggling with mental health issues stemming from his military service. She conveyed her heartbreak for the victims’ families, stating that the tragedy has “destroyed” five families. The Army has not released any specifics regarding Brown’s mental health history due to privacy policies.
Search efforts are concentrated around Barker Lake, where authorities suspect Brown may have fled. Anaconda resident Dan Haffey, a former fire foreman, highlighted the challenges posed by the mountainous terrain, noting, “There’s a thousand places to hide on that mountain.”
Search operations have included aerial support, with local resident Randy Clark reporting that helicopter searches continued late into Friday night and resumed early Saturday morning. A white Ford F-150 truck belonging to Brown was located post-shooting, but authorities confirmed he was not found in or around the vehicle.
The investigation involves collaboration between the FBI, the Denver office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Granite County Sheriff’s Office. While the identities of the four victims have not been publicly released pending family notifications, it is believed that all individuals present during the shooting were killed, including a bartender and three customers.
The tragic events have left the local community reeling, with many residents expressing their disbelief at the violence that unfolded in what is typically a serene environment. As the manhunt continues, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to locate Michael Paul Brown and ensure the safety of the community.