An Anaconda active shooter incident has rocked the small town of Anaconda, Montana, where a gunman opened fire inside a local bar, killing four people. The shooter remains at large, triggering a multi-agency manhunt across the area.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m. inside the Owl Bar, a well-known establishment in the heart of town. Witnesses reported a man opening fire without warning, hitting multiple victims before fleeing the scene. Authorities confirmed that three patrons and the bartender were pronounced dead at the location.
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🔴 Manhunt in Full Force
Law enforcement officials quickly launched an intensive search for the suspect, identified as a 45-year-old local man. He was last seen driving a white Ford F-150 and may still be armed.
To ensure public safety:
- Montana State Prison was immediately placed on lockdown.
- Residents in western Anaconda, including the Stumptown Road and Anderson Ranch Loop area, were ordered to shelter in place.
- Schools and daycare centers implemented emergency security protocols.
The search effort includes SWAT teams, state police, FBI agents, and K-9 units. Drones and helicopters are scanning the rugged terrain surrounding the town as officers go door to door.
🔍 Suspect Details
- Name: Michael Paul Brown
- Age: 45
- Clothing: Tie-dye shirt, jeans, and orange bandanna
- Vehicle: White 2007 Ford F-150
- Status: Armed and dangerous
Authorities urge anyone who sees the suspect or the vehicle to avoid contact and call 911 immediately.
💬 Community Reaction
The town of Anaconda, home to fewer than 10,000 residents, is shaken. Locals say the suspect lived near the bar and was known by some of the victims.
Multiple businesses have closed for the day. Local events have been canceled, and a heavy police presence continues to block roads, especially in and out of the nearby wooded regions.
📌 Summary Table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | August 1, 2025, ~10:30 a.m. |
| Location | Owl Bar, Anaconda, Montana |
| Fatalities | 4 (three customers, one bartender) |
| Suspect | Michael Paul Brown, 45 |
| Vehicle | White 2007 Ford F-150 |
| Response | State, local, federal agencies involved |
| Public Guidance | Shelter in place, report sightings |
Authorities continue urging calm while stressing the urgency of locating the suspect. The town remains on edge as the manhunt pushes into its second phase, covering broader terrain outside Anaconda.
Stay alert. Stay safe. If you’re in the area, follow local instructions and keep an eye on official alerts.