There’s a horrible story out of Montana Friday, as authorities say a gunman shot and killed four people at a bar in Anaconda before fleeing.
Four individuals have been killed in a shooting that occurred on Friday morning at a bar located in Anaconda, Montana, according to a statement from the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
The Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Law Enforcement Center announced they are currently searching for Michael Paul Brown, who is suspected in the incident and considered to be armed and highly dangerous. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the vicinity and not to engage with him. Chase Scheuer, representing the Montana Department of Justice, also confirmed Brown as the suspect to CNN. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation operates under the state’s Department of Justice.
The incident took place at The Owl Bar around 10:30 a.m. local time, and officials have reported the area as secure. However, further information regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting has not been released.
Anaconda is a small city in southwestern Montana, located at the foot of the Anaconda Mountain Range.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte posted about the shooting on X:
I am keeping a close eye on the current active shooter situation in Anaconda. Susan and I ask for prayers for the victims, their families, and the courageous law enforcement officers who are handling this unfortunate event.
— Governor Greg Gianforte (@GovGianforte) August 1, 2025
I am keeping a close eye on the current active shooter situation in Anaconda. Susan and I ask for prayers for the victims, their families, and the courageous law enforcement officers who are handling this unfortunate event.
Here’s more on the suspected shooter:
Brown has been described as being 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a weight of 170 pounds, blue eyes, and brown hair. Authorities have cautioned that he is armed and poses a serious threat.
Montana Senator Tim Sheehy also posted about the tragedy on X:
We are monitoring this tragedy and are in touch with local authorities. We thank law enforcement for their ongoing efforts to protect our communities and pray for the victims, their families, and the entire Anaconda community. https://t.co/IzhIMe0SeW
— Tim Sheehy (@TimSheehyMT) August 1, 2025
We are monitoring this tragedy and are in touch with local authorities. We thank law enforcement for their ongoing efforts to protect our communities and pray for the victims, their families, and the entire Anaconda community.
This is a developing story. RedState will provide further updates as they become available.
