Anaconda Owl Bar Shooting: Manhunt Intensifies for Veteran Suspect Michael Brown

A quiet morning in historic Anaconda, Montana, shattered into chaos and grief on Friday, August 1st, 2025. Gunfire erupted inside The Owl Bar on 3rd Street, claiming the lives of four individuals and leaving the close-knit community reeling. The alleged perpetrator, identified as 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, also known as Mike, remains at large, triggering an intense, multi-agency manhunt across southwestern Montana.

The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation confirmed the mass shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m. at the popular local establishment in the Goosetown neighborhood. Security footage captured Brown fleeing the scene shortly after the shots were fired. Authorities swiftly descended, placing Anaconda under lockdown and urging residents in the Stumptown area and near Anderson Ranch Loop Road West to shelter in place. Brown, described as armed and dangerous, was last seen wearing a tie-dyed shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana, and is believed to be driving a white Ford F-150 pickup truck with Montana license plate DTY493.

What Happened at The Owl Bar in Anaconda?

Details emerging paint a picture of a targeted, horrific incident. The victims, reported to include a bartender and three regular patrons, were known to Brown, a resident who lived near the bar. Bar owner David Gwerder, speaking to local media, expressed shock, stating he was unaware of any prior conflicts involving Brown and the victims present that morning. He suggested Brown may have been experiencing a severe mental health crisis. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as law enforcement, including SWAT teams, flooded the area. Helicopters, drones, and K-9 units are actively scouring rugged terrain west of Anaconda. The Granite County Sheriff’s Department issued stark warnings via social media: “If you see him… Do not approach. Contact 911 immediately.”

Who is Michael Brown and What Led to the Tragedy?

Michael Paul Brown is described as a white male, 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 170 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Crucially, he is a military veteran. Records show Brown served in the US Army from January 2001 to May 2005 as part of an armored vehicle crew, including a deployment to Iraq from February 2004 to March 2005. He later joined the Montana National Guard from April 2006 to March 2009, leaving service as a sergeant.

A deeply personal statement from Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, released to the public, offers a harrowing glimpse into potential underlying factors. Boyle stated her uncle developed schizophrenia during his military service. “Mikee hasn’t been the same since he came back,” she wrote. “It’s been progressively worse with the passing of both parents and exceedingly worse since the trauma of my grandma’s passing (his mother).” Boyle claimed the family repeatedly sought help, only to be turned away: “The VA turned us away… The Montana State Hospital turned us away because they only accept patients who are court ordered which could not happen unless ‘He becomes a harm to self or others.’… The system failed.” She described Brown as frequently suffering from delusions, sometimes believing he was a character like John Wick on a mission, but emphasized his previous kindness and the profound tragedy for all involved. “Mental illness does not excuse these acts… But these acts could have been prevented with proper reporting and a healthcare system that gave a damn about its veterans and citizens.”

Must Know

• Who is the suspect in the Anaconda bar shooting?
  The suspect is Michael Paul Brown, aka Mike, a 45-year-old Army and Montana National Guard veteran from Anaconda. He is described as 5’10”, 170 lbs, with brown hair and blue eyes.
• What vehicle is Michael Brown driving?
  Authorities are searching for a white Ford F-150 pickup truck with Montana license plate DTY493. He was last seen in this vehicle.
• Were there any known motives for the Owl Bar shooting?
  While Brown knew the victims, no clear prior conflict has been publicly established by police. His niece cited untreated schizophrenia stemming from military service and recent personal trauma as contributing factors to a potential mental health crisis.
• How many people died in the Anaconda mass shooting?
  Four people were killed in the shooting at The Owl Bar on August 1st, 2025. Their identities have not yet been formally released by authorities.
• Is the Anaconda shooting suspect still at large?
  Yes, as of the latest reports, Michael Paul Brown remains at large. A significant manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies is ongoing in the Anaconda area. He is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
• What should I do if I see Michael Brown?
  Do not approach him under any circumstances. Immediately call 911 or contact local law enforcement. Provide your location and any details about his appearance or vehicle.

The search for Michael Paul Brown continues relentlessly across the mountains and valleys near Anaconda. This devastating Anaconda Owl Bar shooting has irrevocably altered a community and reignited urgent conversations about veteran mental healthcare and systemic support failures. As authorities work tirelessly to locate the armed suspect, a town mourns, families grieve, and the haunting question of preventable tragedy lingers heavily in the Montana air. Anyone with information must contact law enforcement immediately.