Tragedy in Anaconda Montana: 4 Dead in Mass Shooting, Suspect Still at Large
A Community in Shock
Anaconda, Montana—a peaceful and tight-knit town known for its scenic surroundings and small-town charm—is reeling from a horrific act of violence that unfolded on the morning of August 1st. According to officials from the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, a gunman opened fire inside a local bar, killing four people and fleeing the scene. The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the region, shaking a community not used to such atrocities.
The Shooter and Manhunt
At least 4 to 6 dead, multiple victims after a mass shooting at Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana
Perpetrator is still on the loose in an F-150 pickup truck.
The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Michael Brown of Anaconda and remains at large. He is allegedly a veteran.
He has… pic.twitter.com/Q9VAROH5kB
— 𝐒 𝐓 𝐈 𝐋 𝐋 (@0xStill) August 1, 2025
Authorities have identified the suspect as 45-year-old Michael Brown. At approximately 10:30 AM, Brown entered the Owl Bar in Anaconda and opened fire, leaving four victims dead. He then fled in a white Ford F-150, which was later found abandoned. Despite locating the vehicle, law enforcement has not yet apprehended Brown, who remains armed and dangerous.
The manhunt has now turned toward the mountains near Stumptown Road, west of Anaconda. Authorities are conducting extensive searches in this rugged area and have asked residents to remain indoors and vigilant.
“If you see Brown, do not approach him. Call 911 immediately,” said Lee Johnson, Administrator of the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, during a press briefing.
Anaconda Montana: A Town in Mourning
Our hearts are with the community of Anaconda, Montana, where four lives were lost in a senseless bar shooting.
Law enforcement is actively searching for the suspect, Michael Paul Brown, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. We stand with the brave officers… pic.twitter.com/nHmlib8D2o
— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) August 1, 2025
The shooting has left the Anaconda Montana community devastated. Officials described the town as “tight-knit” and emphasized that Brown’s actions do not reflect the values of the people who call this place home.
“This is a small, close community that’s been harmed by the heinous actions of one individual today who does not represent what this community or Montanans stand for,” Johnson added.
Though the names of the victims have been identified, they are being withheld until families are notified and the appropriate time comes to release them publicly.
A Coordinated Law Enforcement Effort
The scale of the response highlights the seriousness of the situation. Multiple agencies have joined forces to support the investigation and track down Brown. These include:
Anaconda Deer Lodge Police and Fire Departments
Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff’s Office
Montana Highway Patrol
FBI and ATF
Granite and Missoula County Sheriff’s Offices
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
Their coordinated efforts have helped contain the situation and ensure public safety as the search continues into the night.
Who is Michael Brown?
While much remains unknown about Brown’s motive, law enforcement has released a description to help with identification. He is reported to be:
5 feet 10 inches tall
Approximately 170 lbs
Blue eyes
Brown hair
Officials caution that Brown should be considered extremely dangerous and advise the public not to engage with him under any circumstances.
Community Support and Moving Forward
UPDATE: Brown has been found dead after he was last seen fleeing the scene in a stolen 2007 white Ford F-150 pickup with Montana plates DTY493. The vehicle was spotted heading west of Anaconda on Stumptown Road. https://t.co/mgc6LTDsUy pic.twitter.com/bFyygkHUfU
— GHLiveReports (@Grhavit) August 1, 2025
The people of Anaconda Montana are grappling with grief, fear, and uncertainty. Vigils and community gatherings are already being organized to honor the victims and support affected families. Local leaders have emphasized unity, resilience, and the importance of supporting one another during this dark time.
The mayor of Anaconda and several community groups are also working to provide mental health resources and grief counseling to residents who need help processing the tragedy.
Final Thoughts
This shooting is a stark reminder that no community, no matter how peaceful, is entirely immune to senseless violence. The town of Anaconda Montana, known for its hospitality and tranquility, is now the scene of one of the state’s most tragic events in recent memory.
Authorities have pledged to provide ongoing updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the priority remains public safety and justice for the victims and their families.
