Michael Brown, the suspect in the Anaconda bar shooting that claimed four lives on August 1, has been captured, the state Department of Justice announced Friday. Attorney General Austin Knudsen confirmed Brown’s arrest outside the courthouse in Anaconda, stating, “Michael Paul Brown is in custody. He was arrested today, one week later, [at] approximately 2 p.m. this afternoon.” Brown was found near the Ranch Bar, just south of Highway 1.
Authorities allege Brown, 45, used a rifle in the tragic Anaconda shooting, killing bartender Nancy Lauretta Kelley, 64, and patrons Daniel Edwin Baillie, 59; David Allen Leach, 70; and Tony Wayne Palm, 74. The extensive search spanned seven days and involved over 250 members from 39 different agencies. Knudsen noted that a large-scale search nearby led to Brown’s discovery, describing it as a “130-person sweep of a nearby hill.”
Brown was reportedly in good physical condition at the time of capture and was “technically armed,” though further details were withheld due to the ongoing investigation. After his arrest, Brown received medical treatment and is now held at the Butte-Silver Bow Detention Center. Significant contributions from the U.S. Marshals and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation were acknowledged.
Immediately following the shooting, Brown allegedly fled his home for another location down the street before stealing a truck loaded with supplies. Law enforcement faced challenges during his escape due to confusion over similar vehicle appearances. Public tips were instrumental in the search efforts, as noted by Knudsen.
Governor Greg Gianforte commended law enforcement for their relentless pursuit, stating, “[Law enforcement] responded to every call. They followed up on every tip.” Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Attorney Morgan Smith emphasized that while the manhunt concluded, the homicide investigation continues under the Montana DCI and local police’s guidance, withholding further details to maintain case integrity.
Brown’s niece, Clare Boyle, disclosed to the Associated Press that Brown had long struggled with mental health issues, with family members advocating for his welfare. Brown, a former Army armor crewman and Montana National Guard member, was known to keep firearms at home. Law enforcement did not confirm prior welfare checks despite family reports.
When questioned about law enforcement’s response to family mental health concerns, Knudsen simply replied, “No.” Brown’s legal representation status remains unclear, according to the AP.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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