Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming was the scene of a deadly shootout on the Fourth of July, resulting in the death of a 28-year-old man who reportedly threatened to carry out a mass shooting. The suspect, identified as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, was an employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a private business operating within the park.
According to officials, Fussner was confronted by Yellowstone law enforcement rangers after allegedly firing a semi-automatic rifle towards a dining facility at Canyon Village. A ranger was also injured during the exchange of gunfire but has since been released from the hospital in stable condition.
Prior to the shootout, law enforcement rangers were alerted to a report of a woman being held against her will by a man with a gun in a residence at Canyon Village. The woman claimed that Fussner had threatened to kill her and others, including plans for a mass shooting during Fourth of July events outside of the park.
Rangers strategically deployed throughout the park eventually encountered Fussner around 8 a.m. local time as he approached the service entrance of the dining facility while firing the weapon. The FBI is leading the investigation into the incident, including the shooting involving the rangers, who are currently on paid administrative leave.
Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly praised the actions of the law enforcement rangers, stating that their prompt response saved many lives during the incident. The park is now focused on providing support to those involved and their families in the aftermath of the tragic event.