YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING – A tragic incident unfolded at Yellowstone National Park when park rangers were forced to take down a gunman who had planned to carry out a mass shooting on a group of approximately 200 people inside a dining facility. The lone shooter, identified as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, 28, of Milton, Florida, was shot and killed by the rangers during the attack on Thursday morning. The incident occurred at the entrance of a dining facility within the park.
As per park officials, earlier that day, Fussner had held a woman at gunpoint and informed her of his intentions to carry out a mass shooting. The woman reported that Fussner also threatened to kill her and others during the encounter. Law enforcement rangers were alerted to the situation, prompting a search for Fussner across the park, ultimately leading to the fatal confrontation.
Fussner was an employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, the primary concessionaire for facilities within Yellowstone National Park. The shooting resulted in the closure of Canyon Lodge, which comprises hotel rooms, cabins, and dining facilities. The Park Service, along with the FBI, is currently investigating the incident, following standard procedure by placing the involved law enforcement rangers on paid administrative leave during the investigation.
Despite the tragic events, no additional injuries were reported, and Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly commended the actions of the law enforcement rangers, noting that their quick response potentially saved many lives. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those tasked with ensuring the safety and security of national park visitors and employees. The Yellowstone community is reeling from the incident but remains united in its commitment to upholding the park’s values and protecting all those who visit its natural wonders.