Authorities are actively searching for a suspect in Sequoia National Park following a series of incidents, including a vehicle fire, attempted robbery and break-in at the Giant Forest Museum. The suspect remains at large, and park visitors are urged to exercise caution.
The initial incident involved a burning vehicle discovered on Generals Highway in the early morning hours of Friday. Park rangers responded to the scene and found the vehicle completely destroyed by fire. During the investigation into the vehicle fire, a separate report emerged of an attempted robbery and altercation. The suspect reportedly brandished a knife and stick while attempting to steal a visitor's belongings. The intended victim resisted, and the suspect fled into the surrounding forest.
The suspect is described as wearing sturdy hiking boots, dark green cargo pants, a long-sleeved shirt, a brimless hat (possibly a beanie) and a face covering. As the search for the suspect intensified, rangers discovered that the Giant Forest Museum had also been forcibly entered and vandalized while closed. The museum is temporarily closed for repairs, but the Lodgepole Visitor Center remains open to the public.
It is currently unclear if these incidents are connected. The National Park Service, FBI and U.S. Forest Service are collaborating on the ongoing investigation. No injuries have been reported. While a previous area closure and shelter-in-place order has been lifted, park visitors are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities. Anyone with information related to these incidents is urged to contact the National Park Service Tip Line at 888-653-0009 or call 911.
