A somber quiet has fallen over Anaconda, Montana, as a massive manhunt continues for the suspect responsible for a devastating shooting at a local bar that left four people dead. The shocking incident, which unfolded rapidly on a quiet Friday, has galvanized an unprecedented law enforcement response, highlighting the severity and danger of the unfolding situation. The community remains on edge, with authorities urging vigilance as the search intensifies across the rugged Montana landscape.
The tragic events commenced around 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Owl Bar, a beloved local establishment. Unconfirmed reports, later corroborated by the bar’s owner, David Gwerder, indicate that a bartender and three patrons were fatally shot. This sudden eruption of violence shattered the tranquility of the small town, leaving residents stunned and grieving. The immediate aftermath saw a rapid deployment of emergency services, though the suspect quickly fled the scene.
Authorities have identified the alleged assailant as Michael Paul Brown, a 45-year-old military veteran who lived adjacent to the Owl Bar. Described as armed and extremely dangerous, Brown’s flight from the scene initiated a comprehensive, multi-agency search. His last known location was in the Stumptown area, west of Anaconda, leading to public advisories for residents to remain indoors and exercise extreme caution given the potent threat he poses to public safety.
The scale of the manhunt is extensive, involving more great than 100 local, state, and federal law enforcement officers. Agencies such as the FBI, ATF, Montana Highway Patrol, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, alongside Anaconda Police and Butte-Silver Bow law enforcement, have converged on the region. Aerial assets, including National Guard and infrared-equipped helicopters, are scouring the mountainous terrain, supported by multiple SWAT teams on the ground, underscoring the relentless pursuit to apprehend the individual responsible for this violent crime.
Despite the immense resources deployed, Michael Paul Brown remained at large into Saturday morning. While his white Ford F-150 pickup was located, authorities believe he is now on foot, navigating the challenging terrain near Stumptown Road and Anderson Ranch Loop Road. Law enforcement officials, including Anaconda-Deer Lodge County chief executive Bill Everett, have expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts but emphasized the ongoing challenge of locating the suspect, urging the public to report any sightings immediately.
The identities of the four victims have been established but are being withheld pending further family notification, a sensitive process underway amidst the chaos. The bar owner, David Gwerder, confirmed the fatalities and stated his belief that the victims were the only individuals present during the shooting. The tragedy has deeply impacted the community, with local officials like State Senator Sara Novak reporting that their families had been forced to “hunker down” due to the ongoing threat, highlighting the widespread fear and disruption caused by the incident.
The investigation is active and multifaceted, with various police agencies working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to the Anaconda shooting. Initial police radio traffic indicated the weapon used was possibly a 7.62 assault rifle. Law enforcement continues to appeal to the public for any information that could lead to Brown’s capture, providing a dedicated phone number for tips. The collective efforts aim to bring closure to this tragic event and restore peace to the affected community, ensuring justice is served for the victims of this heinous act.
