Four people were fatally shot at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana, on Friday morning, sparking a town-wide lockdown and an intensive manhunt for the suspect. Authorities identified 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, a former Army sergeant, as the gunman and believe he fled into a nearby mountainous area.
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ANACONDA, MT (2-minute read) — A quiet Friday morning in the small town of Anaconda turned tragic when four people were gunned down inside The Owl Bar. The suspect, 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, is a military veteran who lived next door to the bar and was known in the community. The victims included the bartender and three patrons, all of whom were declared dead at the scene.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m., and according to David Gwerder, owner of The Owl Bar, there were no known disputes between Brown and the victims. “He knew everyone in that bar,” Gwerder said. “I think he just snapped.”
Authorities Launch Manhunt in Wooded Terrain
After the shooting, Brown fled the scene, prompting law enforcement to launch a large-scale manhunt. Officers from various agencies locked down a nearby neighborhood west of Anaconda, focusing their search in the heavily forested Stump Town area. A helicopter circled overhead while SWAT and patrol units combed the rugged terrain.
Brown, believed to be armed, served in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2005 as an armor crewman and completed a deployment in Iraq. He later joined the Montana National Guard, serving until 2009. His military background has raised concern about the threat he may pose while on the run.
Local Businesses and Residents Go into Lockdown
The shooting sent shockwaves through the town of approximately 9,000 residents. Local businesses shut their doors, and many residents sheltered in place.
Law enforcement agencies have urged residents to remain indoors and report any sightings of Brown. As of now, there is no word on whether he has been apprehended.
Safety Tip: If you own a firearm, make sure it is stored safely and securely at all times. Proper storage includes using a gun safe or lock box and keeping ammunition stored separately. Responsible ownership can prevent tragedies.
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