A manhunt is currently underway in Anaconda, Montana following a tragic shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of four local residents at a bar over the weekend. The victims have been named as 59-year-old Daniel Edwin Baillie, 64-year-old Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 70-year-old David Allen Leach, and 74-year-old Tony Wayne Palm. All four were connected to The Owl Bar, where two were bartenders and the others patrons.
Montana Attorney-General Austin Knudsen expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and the Anaconda community, describing the event as “absolutely horrific”. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect, Michael Paul Brown, who has been on the run for over 48 hours. A reward of $7,500 is being offered for information leading to his capture, with officials cautioning that he is considered armed and dangerous. Brown has had past struggles with mental health issues, and security footage has captured him fleeing the scene.
The shooting occurred around 10.30 am on Friday, and the establishment has since been closed. While the motives behind the shooting remain unclear, local bartender Cassandra Dutra noted the atmosphere was usually friendly and described Kelley, one of the victims, as a kind and dedicated nurse who had recently retired.
Brown, a former member of the U.S. Army, reportedly struggled with mental health issues post-service, worsening after the death of his parents. His family expressed deep sorrow for the victims’ families, noting that the tragic incident has devastated five households.
Police have secured the surrounding areas, including Barker Lake in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, and extensive searches continue both on land and via air, as the rugged terrain provides ample hiding spots. Witnesses in the area reported a heavy police presence following the incident, with multiple agencies, including the FBI, involved in the investigation.
As the search continues, the tight-knit community of Anaconda is left to grapple with the shock and grief of this violent act, impacting lives and families deeply.