CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Yellowstone National Park rangers thwarted a potential mass shooting when they shot and killed a man who opened fire at the entrance of a dining facility in the park. The incident, which took place in the morning, involved a gunman later identified as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, 28, from Milton, Florida.
After holding a woman at gunpoint and expressing his intentions to carry out a mass shooting, Fussner was confronted by park rangers. Despite being wounded during the encounter, the injured park ranger has since been released from the hospital. Fussner, who worked for Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a major concessionaire in Yellowstone, was believed to have planned a mass shooting during July 4 events.
Law enforcement rangers were alerted to Fussner’s actions in the early hours of Thursday when he held a woman hostage with a gun at a residence in Canyon Village. The woman reported that Fussner had threatened to harm her and others, including potential mass shooting at upcoming events in the park. Authorities began a search for Fussner, leading to the employment of over 20 law enforcement rangers, including a specially trained response team.
At around 8 a.m. on Thursday, law enforcement rangers encountered Fussner as he began firing at the service entrance of the Canyon Lodge dining facility. In response to the threat, rangers opened fire on Fussner, resulting in his death at the scene. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly praised the actions of the law enforcement rangers, crediting them with saving numerous lives during the potentially catastrophic event. The FBI has taken over the investigation into the incident, and as per national park policy, the rangers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation.
As investigations continue, the closure of portions of Canyon Lodge is expected to remain in effect, with park officials cooperating with authorities to ensure the safety and security of all visitors and employees in Yellowstone National Park.