Same Bullet that Wounded Park Ranger Apparently Killed Suspect

Ranger Wright is recovering from his wound in the hospital.

Gwinnett Police responded to a 911 report of a shooting at about 10:15 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26) at the Lower Overlook area of Buford Dam Park. Upon arrival, officers found Wright, 70, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ranger, suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso. 

Wright, who was unarmed, was driving through the park and preparing to close the Lower Overlook area of the park when he noticed a woman sitting in a passenger car, Cpl. Smith reported. As Wright approached the car to notify her that the park was closed, the woman produced a handgun and fired one shot, striking Wright in the abdomen, Smith said.

The ranger escaped on foot towards the entrance of the Lower Overlook area. He secured the gate behind him, closing off the only exit to prevent his attacker’s escape. Wright made his way onto Buford Dam Road where a passing motorist stopped and called 911, according to Smith’s update. GCPD officers arrived on scene a short time later.

Using information provided by Wright who gave information to police before being transported by ambulance to the hospital, police officers quickly located the suspect vehicle where they discovered a female occupant deceased inside, apparently from a gunshot wound. She matched the description of the suspect provided by Wright. A handgun was found inside the vehicle.

Ranger Wright’s family has issued the following statement:

“Ranger Wright and his family wish to express their extreme gratitude to those that responded to the incident of Wednesday evening; the Gwinnett County Police Department, paramedics and first responders, and the citizens who stopped and provided assistance. They are also overwhelmed with the number of messages they are receiving communicating concern, blessings, and wishes for a full recovery.

"Ranger Wright is doing well in his recovery and expects to be discharged from the hospital sometime this week. Although additional recovery time will be needed at home, he looks forward to returning to the job he loves and particularly interacting and teaching children about water safety. 

"As he is recovering, he often speaks of the joy it brings him to make a difference in these youngsters’ lives as he teaches them how to be safe around the water.

"The family wishes to express their thanks and requests the media to allow them privacy for rest and recovery time."