What began as a regular Friday in the small city of Anaconda, Montana, quickly turned into a nightmare after a tragic mass shooting left four people dead and the community on lockdown.
Local authorities have launched a full-scale manhunt for the suspect, who remains on the run.
Gunman Opens Fire Inside Local Bar, Leaves Four Dead
The shooting happened at the Owl Bar, a well-known local hangout in Anaconda.
According to law enforcement officials, 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown allegedly entered the bar and began shooting.
Witnesses said Brown was seen wandering nearby with a rifle before the incident.
The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation later confirmed that four victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Residents Ordered to Shelter in Place Amid Manhunt
In response to the violence, a shelter-in-place order was issued for Anaconda.
Authorities say Brown is considered armed and dangerous, and his whereabouts are currently unknown.
He was last spotted in the Stump Town area just west of the city.
Police warned residents to stay indoors, be alert, and avoid the area while the manhunt continues.
Law Enforcement Swarms the Area in Search Operation
Multiple law enforcement agencies — including local police, SWAT, Montana Highway Patrol, the FBI, and the ATF — quickly converged on the area.
Officers searched Brown’s home, which is located directly next to the bar, but he wasn’t found there.
A white Ford F-150 linked to the case was stopped by police, but Brown was not in the vehicle.
SWAT and FBI Teams Search Forested Area Near Stump Town
Photos shared by reporters, including NBC Montana’s Josh Margolis, show a strong SWAT presence near the bar early Friday afternoon.
Officers were later seen combing through wooded terrain around Stumptown Road and Anderson Ranch Loop Road in hopes of tracking down the suspect.
Authorities believe Brown may still be in the area and likely still armed.
Authorities Release Description of the Suspect
Brown was last seen wearing a tie-dyed T-shirt, blue jeans, and an orange bandana. His image has been released to the public as officials ask for help locating him but warn citizens not to approach under any circumstances.
Governor and Federal Agencies Respond to Tragedy
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte acknowledged the unfolding crisis and offered his support, writing, “Please join Susan and me in praying for the victims, their loved ones, and the brave law enforcement officers responding to this tragedy.”
Meanwhile, the FBI and ATF have joined the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation in the case.
Community Grieves as Motive Remains Unknown
As of now, investigators have not released any details about what may have led to the shooting.
The conditions of any potential survivors have not been made public, and the names of the victims have not yet been released.
The small community of Anaconda remains shaken and on edge as the search continues.
