Authorities across western Montana continue an intensive manhunt for Michael Paul Brown, 45, following a shocking and tragic shooting incident at a local bar in Anaconda, a small, tight-knit community reeling from the violence.

The horrifying event unfolded Friday morning when Brown allegedly opened fire in The Owl Bar, a popular establishment, resulting in multiple fatalities. The swift and brutal nature of the attack left the community in disbelief and mourning.

Following the alleged shooting, Brown reportedly fled the scene in a white pickup truck, which was later abandoned. This discovery shifted the focus of the search from roadways to the rugged, mountainous terrain west of Anaconda, indicating the suspect’s attempt to evade capture in the wilderness.

In a critical development, law enforcement officials released a new photograph of Brown. The image depicts him barefoot and shirtless, walking down outdoor concrete steps, providing the public with a clearer visual of the fugitive as the pursuit intensified.

The incident tragically claimed the lives of four individuals, including a dedicated bartender and three patrons, as confirmed by the bar’s owner. Police are diligently working to notify all victim families before publicly releasing their names, emphasizing the profound impact on the local populace.

While a motive for the shooting remains unestablished by police, insights from Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, suggest a history of mental illness. She indicated that family members had repeatedly sought help for his condition, adding a complex layer to the ongoing investigation.

Currently, more than a dozen officers from various agencies are meticulously combing the wooded areas near Stump Town, just west of Anaconda. The search operations continued throughout Saturday, with authorities underscoring that Brown is considered “extremely dangerous” to the public.

The collective efforts of the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and local sheriff’s offices reflect a determined resolve to apprehend the suspect and bring closure to a community deeply affected by this heinous act. Regular press briefings are anticipated as new information becomes available, keeping the public informed during this critical time.