Montana Community Reels as Veteran Suspect Sought After Fatal Shooting

Authorities are intensifying their search in Montana's mountainous regions for Michael Paul Brown, 45, a military veteran suspected of fatally shooting four people at The Owl Bar in Anaconda. Brown fled the scene in a white pickup truck, later abandoning it, according to Lee Johnson from the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.

Urging residents to stay at home and be vigilant, Johnson highlighted the danger posed by Brown, though there are no reports yet of further harm. Victims' identities will be revealed once their families are informed, in what Johnson describes as a tragic event for the close-knit community.

Anaconda, with its historic roots and smelter stack landmark, is known for its copper mining past. Residents are deeply shaken, with businesses locking down amid the search. Brown's niece describes him as a man battling mental illness, providing context to the unpredictable nature of his actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)