On Tuesday morning, Callum Heskett, a seasonal park ranger at Staunton State Park, radioed in that he had been attacked and stabbed by a man who fled on foot.

In his statement, Heskett gave a detailed description of the alleged assailant, sparking a massive search operation that included drones, the lockdown of several schools, and a surveillance alert for 8,600 area residents.

He was even taken by helicopter to a hospital while authorities questioned two persons of interest, who were later released after their involvement was ruled out.

Inconsistencies and a twist in the investigation

The story began to unravel during the first interview with investigators. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office explained that the ranger's statements were contradictory, coupled with other evidence that called into question the veracity of the account.

“After the initial interview with Heskett, it became even more clear that his story was flawed and inaccurate,” authorities detailed in a statement.

On Thursday, Heskett was arrested and charged with attempting to influence a public servant and tampering with evidence, both felonies. He also faces misdemeanor charges of false reporting, reckless endangerment, obstruction of governmental operations, and second-degree official misconduct.

He remains hospitalized and will be taken to the Jefferson County Jail once he is released.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Deputy Director of Law Enforcement Ty Petersburg said the agency values the cooperation with law enforcement and will continue to provide information as the case progresses.