DCI Releases Photo of Suspect in Anaconda Bar Mass Shooting — Public Urged to Stay Alert

DCI Releases Photo of Suspect in Anaconda Bar Mass Shooting — Public Urged to Stay Alert

📌 Incident Overview

On August 1, 2025, at approximately 10:30 a.m., a mass shooting at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana resulted in four people killed, including the bartender and three patrons, according to the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). The suspect, 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, a former U.S. Army armor crewman and National Guard sergeant, remains at large and is considered armed and extremely dangerous

👤 Suspect Description & New Photo Released

Authorities have just released a photo of Brown fleeing the scene — barefoot and shirtless, wearing black shorts, descending outdoor steps shortly after the shooting.
He is described as 5 ft 10 in, about 170 lbs, with blue eyes and brown hair, last seen wearing a tie-dye shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana

🚓 Manhunt & Search Efforts

• Brown fled in a 2007 white Ford F‑150 (plate DTY493), later abandoned near Stump Town area and Anderson Ranch Loop Road, where authorities have locked down and are searching the rugged terrain by land and air.

• SWAT cleared Brown’s home next door to The Owl Bar but did not locate him

• Federal agencies including the FBI and ATF are assisting local and state law enforcement with the investigation

⚠️ Warnings to the Public

• DCI officials strongly advise residents in and near Anaconda to remain indoors, avoid searching areas west of the town, and not approach the suspect under any circumstances

• Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and congressman Ryan Zinke have echoed the message, urging caution and prayers for those impacted

🧠 Mental Health & Motivations

Friends and family of Brown have disclosed a troubled past marked by PTSD and schizophrenia. He served in the U.S. Army (2001–2005) and Montana National Guard (2006–2009), including deployment to Iraq
Relatives mention he experienced delusions and lacked consistent mental health support after losing his mother, and that medical systems failed to provide ongoing care despite clear warnings from concerned family members

🏘️ Community Response & Impact

• The small town of Anaconda, population under 10,000, has been deeply shaken—businesses locked down, residents sheltered, and grief is widespread in what was once a familiar, quiet community

• Officials emphasize this horror doesn’t reflect the nature of this close-knit community, highlighting its resilience even amid tragedy

📋 Summary Table

🆘 How You Can Help

• If you observe Brown, his vehicle, or suspicious activity, do not approach—call 911 immediately or contact Anaconda-Deer Lodge County law enforcement

• Stay tuned to verified local updates and follow law enforcement guidance.

🙏 In Mourning

Anaconda is navigating profound loss and fear while holding onto solidarity. As the search continues, safety remains the highest priority, and the community’s resolve grows stronger in hope for an end to this nightmare.