The search for Michael Paul Brown, the 45-year-old army veteran suspected of a deadly bar shooting in Anaconda, Montana, escalates as police reveal more about the four victims. The tragedy struck on Friday morning when Brown allegedly opened fire at The Owl Bar. Victims include barmaid Nancy Kelley, 64, and customers Daniel Baillie, 59, David Leach, 70, and Tony Palm, 74.
Dan Baillie's family described him as a beloved community member, while Kelley's daughter spoke of her mother's commitment to nursing before taking a part-time job at the bar to stay socially engaged. "We never used to lock our doors," she reflected, expressing disbelief at the violence that struck their small town.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen described the incident as a "heinous crime" and emphasized public safety concerns. A $7,500 reward has been offered for information leading to Brown's capture, as law enforcement agencies broaden their search area to include national forests near Anaconda.
On Saturday, authorities released a new image of Brown, taken shortly after the shooting. Appearing shirtless and disoriented, the photo shows him wandering away from the scene, leading police to believe he may have changed clothes afterward. Investigators are considering the possibility that he might be armed and dangerous.
Brown, a veteran who served in Iraq, has been struggling with mental health issues, according to his family. His niece provided insight into his struggles, reinforcing the tragic nature of this violent act. The community is reeling, with many businesses either shut down or canceling public events amid this ongoing manhunt.
