Ranger stabbing in Staunton State Park found to be a hoax, police say

Crews search for stabbing suspect in Staunton State Park (copy)

The alleged stabbing of a Colorado Parks and Wildlife ranger that shook Jefferson County residents on Tuesday was found to be a hoax, according to police.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office arrested 26-year-old Callum Heskett — a Colorado Parks and Wildlife seasonal ranger at Staunton State Park — on Thursday after he allegedly faked being stabbed by a stranger at the park Tuesday morning, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.

Heskett allegedly radioed for help at the park near the Lazy V Trailhead around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. He claimed he had been stabbed and the suspect fled the scene on foot.

Jeffcom 911 issued a Lookout Alert to 8,600 residents in the immediate area, warning of the potential danger, and several schools and nearby residents were asked to remain locked down for safety, according to the sheriff’s office.

A search for the suspect went on for “several” hours, according to police. The Jefferson County SWAT and drone teams also assisted in the search, ultimately bringing in two suspects who were detained, interviewed and released.

Heskett was airlifted out of the park with actual stab wounds.

“As the investigation progressed, inconsistencies in Heskett’s statements emerged. That, along with other conflicting and questionable evidence, further raised concerns about the validity of his allegations. After investigators conducted their first interview with Heskett, it became even more clear that his story was flawed and erroneous,” the sheriff’s office said.

While Heskett remains in the hospital, he was officially arrested today on suspicion of attempt to influence a public servant and tampering with evidence, both felonies. He also faces misdemeanor charges of false reporting to authorities, reckless endangerment, obstructing government operations and second-degree official misconduct.

His bond is set at $10,000 and he will be transported to the Jefferson County Jail after being released from the hospital.

“The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to ensuring public safety and holding individuals accountable when false reports create unnecessary risks for the community and first responders,” the sheriff’s office said.

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