After a weeklong manhunt, Michael Paul Brown, the suspect in a deadly shooting at a Montana bar, was captured on Friday, August 8, 2025. The 45-year-old was taken into custody around 2 p.m. near Anaconda, just a few miles from where the shooting occurred. The search involved hundreds of law enforcement officers from multiple agencies who scoured nearby mountainous terrain for the suspect.
The shooting took place on Friday, August 1, at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, a town about 100 miles from Missoula. Authorities believe Brown, who lived next door to the bar, entered and opened fire, killing four people with a rifle believed to be his own. The victims were identified as bartender Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 64; and patrons Daniel Edwin Baillie, 59; David Allen Leach, 70; and Tony Wayne Palm, 74.
Brown, a veteran who served in the Army and Montana National Guard, fled the scene, sparking a massive search effort. During the manhunt, authorities released a surveillance photo of Brown, showing him barefoot and shirtless. It was later believed that he had stolen a vehicle with camping gear and clothes, enabling him to survive in the remote area.
According to Brown's niece, he has struggled with mental illness for years, and his family had repeatedly sought help. The community of Anaconda was on high alert throughout the week, with many residents and local businesses taking precautions. Prosecutors are now beginning the process of charging Brown for the killings.
In times of such violence and loss, our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the victims and the entire community of Anaconda. Let us find strength and comfort in our faith.