St. Louis County park ranger shoots at fleeing car

ST. ANN -- An investigation is underway following an incident where a St. Louis County park ranger discharged their weapon after being hit by a vehicle during a pursuit on Saturday evening. The ranger was patrolling James S. McDonnell Park when they observed two suspicious vehicles around 8:15 p.m. Shortly thereafter, one of the vehicles hit the ranger's vehicle, injuring the ranger and prompting a response.

The ranger, who has four years of law enforcement experience and is 33 years old, fired his department-issued weapon at the fleeing vehicle, but both vehicles managed to escape the scene, according to police reports. The park ranger sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Authorities later apprehended a "person of interest" in connection with the incident, who was not injured by the gunfire. Specific details concerning this individual's involvement have not been disclosed by the police.

The St. Louis County Police Department is actively conducting the investigation and has not released further information at this time. They are urging anyone who may have information regarding the incident to contact them directly or reach out to CrimeStoppers.

As the situation develops, the community is reminded to come forward with any tips that may assist in the ongoing inquiry.