The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a suspect accused of stabbing a ranger at Staunton State Park on Tuesday in what investigators believe was a targeted attack.
First responders rushed the injured ranger to a nearby fire station before he was airlifted for treatment. He underwent surgery for a stab wound to the torso and is now in stable condition, according to the Denver Post.
“These were serious injuries — he was attacked with a knife, and the suspect we are looking for is wanted for attempted murder, so this could not be more serious than it is,” said Jacki Kelley, public information officer for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, via KDVR-TV.
Suspect Description & Search Efforts
Authorities described the suspect as:
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A clean-shaven White man in his early 30s
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Approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 200 pounds
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Having brown hair
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Last seen wearing a plain gray shirt and blue jeans
The suspect fled on foot after the attack, prompting a large-scale manhunt. While the suspect remains at large, investigators believe the attack was not random and say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Victim Identified as Seasonal Ranger
The victim is a seasonal Colorado Parks and Wildlife ranger, the sheriff’s office confirmed on X. Unlike full-time rangers and wildlife officers, seasonal rangers are not armed and do not wear protective vests, said CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose.
Staunton State Park Reopens
Authorities issued a temporary shelter-in-place order near the park after the stabbing but later lifted it. Two persons of interest were questioned and cleared of any involvement.
Staunton State Park officially reopened to visitors on Wednesday as the search for the suspect continues.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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