ANACONDA, MT — Mark Ray Lock, 61, was set to appear in Anaconda Justice Court Monday morning after being charged with deliberate homicide following the fatal shooting of Shane Charles, owner of Carmel’s Bar and Grill. The incident occurred Saturday evening at approximately 6:50 p.m., marking the second bar shooting in this Montana town within a year.
According to court documents obtained by local news outlets, Lock was seated at the bar when he approached Charles, who was sitting on the opposite side. After exchanging brief words with Charles, Lock allegedly pulled out a handgun and fired one shot before fleeing the scene. Another patron managed to disarm Lock during his escape attempt. Police apprehended him later that evening.
During questioning by law enforcement, Lock initially refused to cooperate but eventually stated, “He died,” when asked about the charges against him, according to court documents. No further details regarding a motive or previous conflicts between the two men have been released at this time.
The shooting has deeply affected the local community, particularly as it follows another fatal bar incident in August 2025 where four people were killed inside The Owl Bar, located just one block away from Carmel’s Sports Bar and Grill. Lock's neighbor, Victoria Vandenboom, expressed her shock upon learning of his arrest, recalling him as a helpful individual who often assisted with snow removal.
Charles was well-regarded in the community for his positive demeanor and business acumen. His colleagues described him as full of life, goals, and ambition. Funeral arrangements are pending for Charles, while Lock remains held on $1 million bond awaiting further legal proceedings related to this tragic event.
No additional information is currently available regarding security measures at local establishments or any potential changes in response to these incidents.