CRIME UPDATE: Exclusive Photos Released of Michael Paul Brown, Suspect in Fatal OWI Bar Shooting in Anaconda
A tragic mass shooting occurred on Friday morning, August 1, 2025, at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana, resulting in four fatalities. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, is currently at large and considered armed and dangerous.
The Incident
At approximately 10:30 a.m. local time, Michael Paul Brown entered The Owl Bar and opened fire, killing the bartender and three patrons. Authorities have confirmed that there was no prior known conflict between Brown and the victims. The shooting has deeply shaken the small community of Anaconda, known for its tight-knit residents and tranquil atmosphere. In response, law enforcement initiated an extensive manhunt, focusing on the mountainous area near Stumptown Road, west of Anaconda, where Brown was last seen.
Suspect Profile: Michael Paul Brown
Michael Paul Brown is a former U.S. Army soldier who served as an armor crewman from 2001 to 2005, including a deployment to Iraq. He later served in the Montana National Guard from 2006 to 2009, achieving the rank of sergeant. Public records indicate that Brown resided next door to The Owl Bar. He is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 170 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. At the time of the shooting, Brown was reportedly wearing a tie-dyed shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana. He was last seen driving a 2007 white Ford F-150 pickup truck with Montana license plate DTY493.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Law enforcement agencies, including the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are actively searching for Brown. A SWAT team has cleared his residence, and a helicopter has been deployed to assist in the search efforts. Residents in the Stumptown area have been advised to stay indoors and lock their doors as authorities continue their search.
Community Impact
The shooting has left the Anaconda community in shock. Local businesses were locked down, and nearby childcare centers took precautions to ensure the safety of children. The town’s residents are grappling with the loss of four community members and the unsettling reality of the violence that occurred in their midst.
Public Advisory
Authorities urge the public not to approach Michael Paul Brown if seen. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or call 911 immediately. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available
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