Montana Bar Shooting Suspect Apprehended After Weeklong Manhunt
Anaconda, MT — August 8, 2025 |
Law enforcement officials in Montana have arrested the man suspected of killing four people at a local bar, ending a seven-day manhunt that gripped the state.
Michael Brown, 45, was taken into custody near the town of Anaconda, where the fatal shooting took place on August 1. Officials confirmed his arrest around 2:00 p.m. Friday.
Governor and Attorney General Commend Law Enforcement
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte announced the arrest on social media, praising the coordinated response across state and local agencies.
“The Anaconda shooter Michael Brown has been apprehended. Incredible response from law enforcement officers across Montana,” Gianforte posted.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen also commended law enforcement efforts, saying he was “proud of the unrelenting” pursuit and extended condolences to the victims’ families.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred early Friday morning at The Owl Bar in Anaconda. Authorities say Brown entered the establishment and opened fire, killing four individuals:
- Daniel Edwin Baillie, 59
- Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 64
- David Allen Leach, 70
- Tony Wayne Palm, 74
Knudsen described the attack as a “cold-blooded” act by an unstable individual. Brown reportedly lived next door to the bar and was known in the community as a frequent visitor.
After fleeing the scene, Brown is believed to have discarded his clothing and other belongings. Surveillance footage captured him shortly after the shooting wearing only black shorts. Investigators later said he may have obtained new clothes from a stolen vehicle.
Background on the Suspect
Brown served in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2005, including deployment to Iraq. He later joined the Montana National Guard from 2006 to 2009.
Family members and local residents indicated Brown had long struggled with mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Clare Boyle, the suspect’s niece, confirmed her uncle’s history of mental illness. Residents described him as eccentric but not previously violent.
Kristian Kelley, whose mother was among the victims, said Brown needed serious mental health support.
“He was someone who needed resources. I never knew him to be violent,” Kelley said.
Another resident, Shane Charles, recalled Brown sharing bizarre stories, including claims of being a government agent or action movie figure. Charles also knew one of the victims, Nancy Kelley, whom he described as “always happy” and well-loved in the community.
Community Impact
The shooting has left a lasting mark on Anaconda, a small Montana town now mourning the loss of four well-known residents.
“Our community is suffering because they’ve lost some great, great people,” said Charles.
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