Gunman's Plan to Carry Out July 4th Mass Shooting in Yellowstone National Park Revealed

In a tragic incident at Yellowstone National Park, a gunman identified as 28-year-old Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner opened fire, leaving one ranger injured. The shooter had held a woman against her will and expressed intentions to carry out a mass shooting at July 4th events outside the park. Fussner, an employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, was confronted by law enforcement rangers after being located near the Canyon Lodge dining facility, where he fired a semi-automatic rifle towards a building with around 200 people inside. Following an exchange of gunfire, Fussner was shot and died at the scene. The incident unfolded after Yellowstone’s 911 dispatch center received a call reporting the woman being held at gunpoint by Fussner in Canyon Village. Law enforcement rangers swiftly mobilized to protect park visitors and employees while searching for the armed suspect. The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, with support from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming. The park service is also collaborating with the FBI to provide victim and witness support in the aftermath of the tragic event. Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Cam Sholly commended the heroic actions of the law enforcement rangers, emphasizing that their swift response helped save many lives during the harrowing situation. The wounded park ranger has been released from the hospital, and no other injuries were reported. As per National Park Service policy, law enforcement rangers involved in the shooting are placed on paid administrative leave pending the investigation. The FBI's thorough examination aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting and ensure accountability for the tragic events that transpired at the iconic national park.