One person was killed and a park ranger was injured in a shooting on the morning of July 4th at Yellowstone National Park in Canyon Village, Wyoming, according to park officials. The incident, which began overnight, concluded Thursday morning. Rangers responded to a report of an individual with a firearm making threats at Canyon Village, located south of Tower Falls in the central part of the park.
Upon contacting the individual, rangers exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who subsequently died. The identity of the deceased has not been released. A Yellowstone law enforcement park ranger was injured during the exchange. The ranger, whose name has not been disclosed, is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment at a hospital.
The FBI is leading the investigation with assistance from National Park Service special agents. As part of the ongoing investigation, the area around the Canyon Lodge complex remains closed. Park officials have assured the public that there are no active threats and no additional information is available at this time.
Todd Heskett, a visitor staying at the Canyon Village hotel with his wife and two children, ages 14 and 22, recounted hearing gunshots around 8 a.m. from the direction of the Canyon Lodge eatery. Heskett immediately called 911 and the front desk, where he was informed of an active shooter situation and instructed to stay in his room.
The eatery at the Canyon Lodge, the visitor center, and the general store were all shut down as a precaution. About an hour later, Heskett received an emergency alert on his phone indicating that the situation had been resolved and it was safe to leave.
The incident has left many visitors and park officials shaken. Yellowstone National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer months. The shooting has cast a shadow over the usually serene environment, prompting concerns about safety and security within the park.
The park ranger who was injured is expected to make a full recovery, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise even in seemingly peaceful settings. The FBI and National Park Service are working diligently to piece together the events that led to the shooting and to ensure that such an incident does not occur again.
Visitors to Yellowstone National Park are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to park authorities. The park’s management is also reviewing its security protocols to enhance the safety of both visitors and staff.
As the investigation continues, the park remains open to the public, with the exception of the areas immediately surrounding the Canyon Lodge complex. Park officials are committed to maintaining a safe environment for all visitors and are cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies to bring clarity to the situation.
The tragic events of July 4th have undoubtedly left a mark on Yellowstone National Park, but the resilience of its staff and the support of the community will help the park move forward. The safety and well-being of visitors and employees remain the top priority for park officials as they navigate the aftermath of this unfortunate incident.
Source: NBC News
