Authorities in Montana are intensifying their search for Michael Paul Brown, a 45-year-old army veteran suspected of a horrific shooting at The Owl Bar in Anaconda on Friday. Four victims were named, including bar employee Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 64, and patrons Daniel Baillie, 59, David Leach, 70, and Tony Palm, 74. After the tragic incident, which occurred around 10:30 AM, Brown fled into nearby foothills.
State officials have expressed public safety concerns, labeling Brown as "unstable". A reward of $7,500 is being offered for information about his whereabouts. Montana's Attorney General, Austin Knudsen, condemned the shooting as a heinous act committed by an individual who likely knew his victims, with authorities now searching both the town and surrounding forest areas for leads.
Around 250 law enforcement officers are involved in combing the area on foot, by vehicle, and from the air. Following the incident, Brown’s white pickup truck was found, but he remains missing, and the search is ongoing. Investigators released a photo of him shortly after the shooting, depicting a man who had stripped down and was attempting to hide from authorities.
With a history of service in Iraq from 2001-2005, Brown's condition may be compounded by mental health issues, as noted by his family. The community, once considered safe, has been shaken by the violence, leading to business closures and canceled events. Despite the tragedy, locals continue to hope for a swift resolution to this alarming situation.
State officials have expressed public safety concerns, labeling Brown as "unstable". A reward of $7,500 is being offered for information about his whereabouts. Montana's Attorney General, Austin Knudsen, condemned the shooting as a heinous act committed by an individual who likely knew his victims, with authorities now searching both the town and surrounding forest areas for leads.
Around 250 law enforcement officers are involved in combing the area on foot, by vehicle, and from the air. Following the incident, Brown’s white pickup truck was found, but he remains missing, and the search is ongoing. Investigators released a photo of him shortly after the shooting, depicting a man who had stripped down and was attempting to hide from authorities.
With a history of service in Iraq from 2001-2005, Brown's condition may be compounded by mental health issues, as noted by his family. The community, once considered safe, has been shaken by the violence, leading to business closures and canceled events. Despite the tragedy, locals continue to hope for a swift resolution to this alarming situation.
