Police captured a Montana man Friday, wanted in connection with an Anaconda bar shooting that left four people dead.
Michael Paul Brown, 45, was taken into custody around 2 pm on Friday, following a week-long search. Authorities discovered him in a previously checked building, located south of Highway 1 near Ranch Bar in Anaconda, as reported by KRTV.
CrimeOnline had earlier reported that Brown is suspected of entering the Owl Bar and fatally shooting Daniel Baillie, 59; Nancy Kelley, 64; David Leach, 70; and Tony Palm, 74. It is believed that Brown resided close to the bar and was probably a regular patron.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen stated earlier this week that 250 officers were on the ground searching for Brown, who was considered armed and hazardous.
While the police have not disclosed a motive yet, Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, revealed he faced serious mental health issues, including schizophrenia and PTSD from his military service, as reported by the Associated Press.
During a news briefing on Friday, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, Attorney General Knudsen, and Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Attorney Morgan Smith expressed gratitude for the dedicated efforts of everyone involved.
They commended the “brave men and women in uniform” who swiftly acted and noted the cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies.
Brown is reportedly being held at the Butte-Silver Bow Detention Center. His official charges are pending.
[Feature Photo: Montana Department of Justice]
