Yellowstone National Park shooter: July 4th incident identified

On the morning of July 4, 2024, a serious incident occurred in Yellowstone National Park, killing an armed person and injuring a ranger. The incident occurred near Canyon Village, a central area of ​​the park, transforming the day’s festive atmosphere into one of concern and urgency.

The series of events began shortly after midnight, when Yellowstone Emergency Services received a disturbing report from a woman who claimed she was being held against her will by an armed man. She identified the man as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, 28, of Milton, Florida. She described Fussner’s threats to kill her and others, including his alleged plans to attack Fourth of July celebrations both inside and outside the park.

Yellowstone police responded to the woman’s report and later found Fussner’s vehicle abandoned in the canyon area. Assessing the threat as serious, they mobilized over 20 rangers, including members of the park’s special operations team, to protect visitors and staff while they searched for the suspect.

At around 8 a.m., the situation escalated when rangers spotted Fussner at Canyon Lodge, where he approached the service entrance while firing a semi-automatic rifle. At the time, the lodge housed approximately 200 people, including employees and visitors. Police engaged Fussner, and during the skirmish, he was fatally shot and a ranger sustained injuries to a lower extremity.

Both the injured ranger and Fussner received immediate emergency medical treatment; Fussner, however, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The injured ranger was later taken to a nearby hospital and was reportedly released in stable condition. Fortunately, there were no other physical injuries among those present.

The incident has sparked a full investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), with assistance from the National Park Service (NPS), Xanterra Parks and Resorts – Fussner’s employer – and other agencies. In accordance with NPS policy, the police officers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave. In addition, the NPS has committed to releasing bodycam footage of the incident within 30 days to ensure transparency.

Superintendent Cam Sholly praised the Rangers’ quick and decisive action, which he said helped prevent further damage. “Many lives were saved thanks to the heroic actions of our police officers,” said Sholly. He reiterated ongoing efforts to support all those affected by this tragic event and acknowledged the cooperation of multiple agencies.

As the community and visitors to Yellowstone National Park process this disturbing incident, the Canyon Lodge area remains closed to the public to facilitate the ongoing investigation. The park assures that there are no active threats at this time and is focused on supporting all those affected while dealing with the aftermath of this unforeseen tragedy.