Ranger Airlifted to County-USC Medical Center

August 18, 2010

AZUSA – A man struck an unarmed Angeles National Forest ranger in the face with an unknown object today, knocking him unconscious, authorities said.

The forest protection officer was in the East Fork Ranger Station in the San Gabriel Mountains at 24700 East Fork Road when he heard a knock on the door and someone asked him if he could use his phone.

When the ranger opened the door, he was struck in the face with an unknown object and knocked unconscious, according to Capt. Mike Parker of the Sheriff’s Headquarters Bureau.

When he awoke, he called 911, with the sheriff’s San Dimas Sheriff’s Station receiving the call at 3:40 p.m.

The suspect was described as being in his 20s and driving a green Mitsubishi Eclipse.

The ranger was airlifted to County-USC Medical Center. His condition was not immediately available, but one station reported he was going in and out of consciousness.

Azusa and Glendora police joined the sheriff’s department in looking for the suspect. Cars matching the description of the suspect vehicle were being checked.

“We do not know the reason for this bizarre and seemingly unprovoked attack,” Parker said.
The District Attorney’s Crimes Against Police Officers Unit is also on the case, Parker said.

For our members who frequent the East Fork area, please be careful out there and be extra aware of those around you.

If you are going on the outing this weekend, please take a moment to stop in at the Ranger Station to inquire how the assaulted officer is doing. If someone could drop off a get well card from the club, that would be great too.