The man who died after being shot in an exchange of gunfire with Yellowstone National Park rangers on Thursday, July 4, 2024, has been identified as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner.
Fussner, 28 years old, was from Milton, Florida, according to the Park County (Wyoming) Coroner's Office, who released his name on Monday.
In the early hours of July 4, dispatchers alerted Cody-area law enforcement to be on the lookout for a dangerous individual, who could be heading their way.
“Cody units, I'm sending you guys a message for a BOLO about an armed and dangerous suspect," the dispatcher said. “Last seen leaving Yellowstone National Park headed in an unknown direction.”
At the time, it was believed that Fussner had left the Canyon Village area.
“He is believed to have a pistol and possibly other larger weapons in his possession as well as a knife,” the dispatcher said. "Looks like he held a female hostage at gunpoint and threatened to suicide by cop."
But Fussner was found in the Canyon Village area and when rangers contacted him there was an "exchange of gunfire."
Fussner was shot and killed while wielding a gun and making threats during the altercation with numerous rangers.
One ranger was injured and taken to a hospital.
Authorities have not provided a condition update as of Monday, although the ranger was initially reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities have not yet released the names of any of the rangers involved in the shooting.
The Cowboy State Daily reported that Fussner was an employee with Xanterra Travel Collection, the company that operates concession stands and other businesses in the park.
MTN News has not been able to independently confirm Fussner's employment.
The FBI, National Park Service, and the Park County Sheriff's Office are continuing to investigate.
We will update you if we get more information.
