Michael Paul Brown: 2025 Owl Bar Mass Murder in Anaconda, Montana
Overview
On the morning of August 1, 2025, a gunman entered The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana, and fatally shot four people — a bartender and three patrons — in what authorities describe as a sudden, unprovoked attack. The suspect was identified as Michael Paul Brown, 45, who lived next door to the bar. The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. MDT. Investigators say a rifle was used; the motive remains under investigation.
Victims (Names, Ages, Date, Location)
- Nancy Lauretta Kelley (64) — bartender — Aug 1, 2025, The Owl Bar, 819 E. 3rd St., Anaconda, MT.
- Daniel Edwin Baillie (59) — patron — Aug 1, 2025, The Owl Bar, Anaconda, MT.
- David Allen Leach (70) — patron — Aug 1, 2025, The Owl Bar, Anaconda, MT.
- Tony Wayne Palm (74) — patron — Aug 1, 2025, The Owl Bar, Anaconda, MT.
Timeline of Events
Aug 1, 2025: Around 10:30 a.m., Brown entered The Owl Bar and opened fire with a rifle, killing four. He fled the scene; authorities launched a large-scale manhunt that prompted lockdowns and public alerts around Anaconda.
Aug 2–7, 2025: Local, state, and federal agencies (including FBI and ATF) searched rugged terrain near Anaconda. Officials increased rewards for information and urged the public to remain vigilant.
Aug 8, 2025: After a week on the run, Brown was captured west of town near The Ranch Bar. He was taken into custody without further casualties.
Aug 11, 2025: Brown made his first court appearance in Anaconda–Deer Lodge County Justice Court; bond was set at 2 million dollars.
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