Montana AG Update: Suspect Identified in Fatal Anaconda Bar Shooting

Investigation Update on Anaconda Shooting

• 🎯 Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen provided an update on the shooting that occurred at the Owl Bar in Anaconda.
• 🚨 The suspect, Michael Paul Brown, has been identified, as have the four victims who were killed.
• 💔 The AG expressed deep condolences to the community and families of the victims, noting the horrific nature of the crime.

Victims Identified

• 📌 Daniel Edwin Bailey, 59, a patron.
• 📌 Nancy Loretta Kelly, 64, the employee and bartender.
• 📌 David Allen Leach, 70, a patron.
• 📌 Tony Wayne Palm, 74.
• 📍 All victims were residents of Anaconda.

Suspect and Manhunt

• 🏃 Michael Paul Brown is considered armed and extremely dangerous and remains at large.
• 💰 An initial reward of $7,500 is offered for information leading to his arrest.
• 📞 A hotline has been established through the US Marshall Service: 1-877-926-8332.
• 🕵️ Law enforcement believes the suspect is clothed and has shoes, possibly with camping equipment and clothing from a stolen vehicle.

Law Enforcement Response

• 🚓 A significant law enforcement response, with over 250 personnel at its peak, has been deployed from local, state, and federal agencies.
• 🚁 Air and ground assets are being utilized in the search.
• 🗺️ The search area is extensive and includes known hunting sites and cabins, with expertise in the local terrain.
• ⚠️ Public is urged to be vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activity to 911 or the tip line.

Ongoing Investigation

• ❓ The investigation is ongoing, with all options on the table regarding potential assistance to the suspect.
• 🔫 The suspect used a rifle in the crime and is believed to still be armed.
• 🔍 There is concern the suspect may return to town, given his unstable nature and the unprovoked nature of the attack.
• 🔄 Law enforcement response is shifting towards a fugitive location operation, but finding the suspect remains priority number one.