Manhunt Underway After State Park Ranger Stabbed Near Denver; Suspect at Large
Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies Conduct Intensive Search in Area Surrounding North Table Mountain Park
GOLDEN, Colo. – A massive multi-agency manhunt is underway for a suspect who allegedly stabbed a Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) ranger during an encounter at North Table Mountain Park in Jefferson County on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident prompted a massive emergency response, closing the popular park and putting nearby schools on a secure status as authorities scoured the area. The condition of the ranger has not been officially released, though initial reports from law enforcement scanners indicated the injuries were serious.
The Incident and Response
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation, the stabbing occurred shortly after 1:30 p.m. near the trailhead of the park, a prominent basalt mesa just outside of Denver known for its hiking and biking trails.
Details of what led to the altercation are still emerging. Preliminary information suggests the ranger was involved in a confrontation with an individual when the ranger was stabbed.
After the attack, the suspect fled the scene on foot. The injured ranger was able to call for help and was quickly transported to a local hospital by emergency crews who responded to the park.
Large-Scale Search Operation
In response, a significant force was deployed to locate the suspect. The search includes:
- Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Golden Police Department
- Lakewood Police Department
- Colorado State Patrol
Agencies utilized K-9 units, drones, and a helicopter from the Colorado State Patrol to search the rugged terrain of the park and surrounding neighborhoods. Residents in the area were advised to lock their doors and remain vigilant.
As a precaution, several schools in the Jefferson County School District were placed on a “lockout” or “secure” status, meaning all exterior doors were locked, but instruction continued normally inside. This status was lifted later in the afternoon as the immediate search perimeter expanded.
Description of the Suspect
Authorities have not yet released a detailed description of the suspect, confirming only that they are searching for an adult male. The investigation is in its early stages, and officials are likely reviewing park cameras and witness statements to develop a clearer picture of the individual involved.
Park Closed Indefinitely
North Table Mountain Park, a 2,000-acre open space park managed by Jefferson County Open Space, remains closed indefinitely as the investigation and search continue. Hikers and residents are urged to avoid the area to allow law enforcement to conduct their operation safely and effectively.
“We are asking for the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to locate this suspect,” a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said during a press briefing. “If you saw anything suspicious in or around North Table Mountain Park today, please contact our tip line immediately.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office tip line. This is a developing story, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.