Manhunt Intensifies for Suspect in Montana Bar Shooting as Authorities Expand Search Efforts

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Authorities in Montana are continuing an extensive manhunt for a former U.S. Army soldier suspected of fatally shooting four individuals at a bar in Anaconda. The suspect, Michael Paul Brown, 45, has been missing since the incident took place on the morning of August 1, 2025, at The Owl Bar, a local establishment in the southwestern Montana city.

The victims have been identified as Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 64, a bartender at the bar, and patrons Daniel Edwin Baillie, 59; David Allen Leach, 70; and Tony Wayne Palm, 74. Authorities believe Brown, who lived near the bar, was familiar with most of the victims.

As of the latest reports, 38 local, state, and federal agencies are involved in the search. Law enforcement officials described their efforts as ongoing and “unrelenting,” emphasizing that all resources are being deployed to locate Brown, who is considered armed and extremely dangerous.

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has publicly expressed support for the operation and joined investigators in urging the public to remain vigilant. While some outlets previously reported an executive order for emergency funding, there is no official confirmation that such an order has been issued.

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen confirmed Brown is a U.S. Army veteran who served in the Iraq War and with the Montana National Guard. Brown is known to law enforcement and remains a person of high concern.

The U.S. Marshals Service has offered a $7,500 reward for any information that leads to Brown’s arrest. Citizens with relevant details are encouraged to call 1-877-WANTED2.

Earlier speculation regarding Brown’s brother, William Brown, being a convicted murderer currently serving a life sentence in the same community has not been verified by credible sources and remains unconfirmed.

Authorities continue to explore all possibilities, including whether Brown is still in the area or has fled. However, there is no evidence at this time to suggest he has been apprehended or is deceased.

Local officials are urging residents in Anaconda and surrounding areas to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity. For accurate, real-time updates, residents are advised to monitor local news sources such as the Montana Standard or trusted national outlets including CNN and NBC News.