Crime & Courts

A rash of graffiti and vandalism on the Cheyenne Frontier Days grounds has prompted the organization to ban the public from the area except during regular events.

Vandalism Forces Cheyenne Frontier Days To Close Grounds To Public

A rash of vandalism at the Cheyenne Frontier Days grounds has caused an estimated $15,000 to $20,000 worth of damage and prompted the organization to close the area to the public.

Greg JohnsonNovember 14, 2024

Utah Man Says He Was Hired To Cash $13K In Fake Checks In Wyoming

A Utah man is the Lincoln County, Wyoming, jail on claims that he drained the Alpine Standard gas station's bank account of $13,000. He’s accused of cashing fake checks, but claims he was hired to cash them and had no idea they were fake.

Clair McFarlandNovember 14, 2024

Highway 287 crash on Feb 22, 2024, that killed three members of the University of Wyoming swimming and diving team.

Wyoming, Colorado DUI Patrols Will Be Watching Highway 287 For Border War

Wyoming and Colorado will increase DUI patrols for Friday’s annual Border War football game between Wyoming and Colorado State universities. Highway 287 between Laramie and Fort Collins has been nicknamed the "highway of death."

Justin GeorgeNovember 14, 2024

Multiple Law Agencies Investigate Homemade Explosives Found At Home Near Cody

The discovery of homemade explosive devices at a home on Musser Road in Park County east of Cody has prompted a multiagency response from local, state and federal law enforcement Thursday morning. The investigation remains active.

November 14, 2024

The Mountain West Conference and its commissioner, Gloria Nevarez, inset, are among those being sued by a dozen conference volleyball players over a transgender player allowed to compete on the San Jose State University team.

3 UW Volleyball Players Part Of Bombshell Lawsuit Over Trans Player

Three University of Wyoming student-athletes are part of a bombshell lawsuit over a transgender player competing for San Jose State University. Among other things, they claim the Mountain West Conference tried to silence player boycotts.

Clair McFarlandNovember 14, 2024

Hockey sticks put up along a fence near Sheridan in memory of Patrick Mudd, a longtime coach who was killed in an altercation this past summer.

Sheridan Man Accused Of Punching And Killing Hockey Coach Claims Self-Defense

A Sheridan man accused of punching a longtime hockey coach so hard it killed him is arguing that he acted in self-defense. He claims the hockey coach first repeatedly punched and attacked him outside a rodeo this past summer.

Clair McFarlandNovember 14, 2024

Marquis Hayman pleaded not guilty to shooting five bullets into a North Durbin Street mobile home in August.

“I Hope I Killed One”: Casper Teen Accused Of Shooting Into Homes Pleads Not Guilty

A 15-year-old Casper, Wyoming, boy pleaded not guilty Wednesday to allegations he shot into two homes on the city’s north side. He allegedly told friends, “I hope I killed one” after an Aug. 12 shooting.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 13, 2024

Torrington Man Accused Of Throwing Ex’s Guns And Computers In Canal

A Torrington man already accused of brutally pistol-whipping and disfiguring his ex-girlfriend has been charged with yet another felony. He’s accused of throwing his victim’s phone, laptop and guns in a canal.

Clair McFarlandNovember 13, 2024

Hunter DeVries, right, walks down the steps of the Fremont County District Court moments after pleading guilty Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, to molesting a child at least four times this past year.

Riverton School Board Candidate Pleads Guilty To Molesting Child For Months

A recent candidate for the Riverton, Wyoming, school board, Hunter DeVries pleaded guilty Tuesday to molesting a child for months. He faces up to 30 years in prison if the judge accepts his plea agreement.

Clair McFarlandNovember 12, 2024

Companies Say Explosions That Hurt Wyoming Oil Field Workers Were Their Own Fault

Two Wyoming energy companies being sued over a pair of explosions that hurt two oil field workers say they’re not at fault. In court filings, they say the injuries “were caused by their own negligence and the negligence of their employer.”

Clair McFarlandNovember 11, 2024

FBI Asks For Help To Find Crow Tribe 13-Year-Old Girl Missing More Than A Month

The FBI is asking for help to find Sa’Wade Birdinground, 13, a member of the Crow Tribe in Montana who was last seen Oct. 6 at a home near the Wyoming border. Searchers have used dogs, divers, drones and helicopters to find her, but no luck so far.

Jen KocherNovember 09, 2024

Man Gutted Dead Uncle's Wyoming Oil And Gas Company To Start His Own

A Green River, Wyoming, man who worked for his uncle’s oil and gas company for 38 years got probation Thursday for stealing from the company after his uncle’s death. When he couldn’t buy the company, he took its equipment and employees, court documents show.

Clair McFarlandNovember 09, 2024

Off-Duty Casper Cop Who Shot At Deputies During Standoff To Face 6 Felonies

An off-duty Casper police officer involved in a 17-hour standoff in August waived his preliminary hearing in Casper Circuit Court on Thursday. He faces six felony charges for allegedly threatening and shooting at deputies. He's no longer a Casper cop.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 08, 2024

Lenea Brown, 17, of Casper was shot in the head and killed near Buckboard Park on May 14. Her ex-boyfriend, Eavan Castaner, has pleaded guilty to killing her.

Casper Teen Pleads Guilty To Second-Degree Murder For Shooting Ex-Girlfriend

A Casper 16-year-old pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Friday, admitting he shot his 17-year-old ex-girlfriend in the head. The plea means he’ll get 20 years to life in prison, but the father of his victim says that isn’t justice for his daughter.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 08, 2024

3D imaging of a John Doe whose badly decomposed remains were found in Cheyenne in November 2023. The imaging recreates what the man may have looked like, and with various features like with or without facial hair.

3D Imaging Helps Recreate Face Of John Doe Found In Cheyenne A Year Ago

DNA from a badly decomposed man found in Cheyenne in November 2023 hasn’t so far helped identify him. But the Laramie County coroner hopes new 3D imaging of what he may have looked like will.

Jen KocherNovember 08, 2024

The driver's side of this Cambpell County Sheriff's Office patrol car shows where the windshield took a shotgun blast from a suspect on Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024. The deputy wasn't hurt, but the suspect was killed.

Campbell County Deputy Who Killed Shooter Acted In Self-Defense

A Campbell County, Wyoming, deputy who shot and killed a Wright man who'd fired a shotgun at his patrol vehicle acted in self-defense. That’s the determination of the county attorney after reviewing an independent state investigation into the incident.

Clair McFarlandNovember 08, 2024

Prosecutor Disputes Wyoming Hunter's Claim Friend's Shooting Death Was Accident

A 20-year-old Wyoming hunter says the gunshot that killed his best friend while duck hunting was an accident. But a prosecutor responded this week saying the death was the result of recklessness and the case against the hunter should move forward.

Clair McFarlandNovember 07, 2024

Casper Teen Accused Of Stabbing Girl Said The Victim “Walked Into The Blade”

A 17-year-old Casper, Wyoming, girl had a preliminary hearing Thursday on allegations she stabbed another teen Halloween night. An investigator testified the suspect claimed the victim “walked into the blade.”

Dale KillingbeckNovember 07, 2024

Interstate 25 approaching exit 191 near Bar Nunn, Wyoming.

Juvenile On The Run Hit And Killed Trying To Cross I-25 Near Bar Nunn

A juvenile was hit by a vehicle and killed while trying to cross the southbound lane of Interstate 25 near Bar Nunn, Wyoming, on Wednesday night. The juvenile allegedly assaulted a family member, then ran from the home before deputies could respond.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 07, 2024

Gillette Woman Charged With Domestic Abuse Claims Boyfriend Punched Himself

A Gillette, Wyoming, woman charged with beating up her boyfriend told police he punched himself in the face Monday night. Police say her fists, not his, were scuffed.

Clair McFarlandNovember 07, 2024

The front patio at Alina Gaona’s apartment complex, where she says her estranged husband Oscar waited for her while baiting her to go home Oct. 9.

Wyoming Woman Says She Was Too Patient With Husband Accused Of Shooting At Her

A woman whose estranged husband is facing felony charges, on claims that he leveled a shotgun at her and fired it as she fled, says she wishes she hadn’t been so nice for so long.

Clair McFarlandNovember 06, 2024

Willow Wagner says she tries to “think of the positives” following a stabbing incident that nearly cost her her life.

Casper Girl, 17, Thought Machete-Like Knife Was Fake, Then She Was Stabbed

A 17-year-old Casper, Wyoming, girl was almost killed Halloween night when another teen stabbed her with a machete-like knife. Willow Wagner told Cowboy State Daily she first thought the knife was fake — until it was in her body.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 06, 2024

Sheridan Man Accused Of Shooting At Wife, Threatening Man Who Drove Her Home

A man from Sheridan County is facing arraignment Thursday on claims that he fired a shotgun toward his wife as she ran away on foot last month. He's also accused of pointing the shotgun at a man who drove his wife home.

Clair McFarlandNovember 06, 2024

Nationally Notorious Serial Graffiti Vandal “Ciga” Targets Cody

A serial graffiti artist who lives in Wyoming and has been spray-painting “Ciga” onto public and private property across the country for a decade is wanted again, this time in Cody, court records show.

Clair McFarlandNovember 05, 2024

Wyoming Duck Hunter Says Fatal Shooting Was Accident, Not Crime

Gaige Zook, 20, is asking a judge to dismiss an involuntary manslaughter charge in the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old. He says the gun fired accidentally while both he and the victim were on a duck hunt.

Clair McFarlandNovember 04, 2024

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center parking lot became the scene of the latest teen violence in Casper on Halloween night.

Girl Kicked SUV, So Casper Teen Allegedly Stabbed Her With Machete-Style Knife

The 17-year-old Casper, Wyoming, girl charged with stabbing another 17-year-old girl on Halloween was mad because the victim kicked her SUV. So, she allegedly got out and stabbed her with a machete-style knife.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 04, 2024

'Wish They Would Stop': False Threats Prompt Lockdowns At Schools Across Wyoming

School shooting threats at multiple Wyoming schools, including in Cheyenne, Gillette and Riverton, prompted lockdowns and police searches Monday. The threats were unfounded, authorities have said, adding they “wish they would stop.”

Clair McFarlandNovember 04, 2024

Braigene Marcel Collins was reported missing when she didn't show up to work in September at the 49'er Inn & Suites in Jackson and her coworkers did a welfare check on her. The Teton County Sheriff's Office reported Nov. 1, 2024, that she's been found safe.

Jackson Hotel Worker Missing Since September Found Safe

A Jackson hotel worker missing since September has been located safely in another state, the Jackson Police Department announced Friday.

Jen KocherNovember 02, 2024

Truck Plows Into Rock Springs Gas Station, Burying Woman In Debris

A truck plowed into a Maverik gas station in Rock Springs on Thursday burying a South Dakota woman in debris. The woman she hit her head on the floor and then a food shelf fell on top of her.

Clair McFarlandNovember 01, 2024

Gillette Mother's 'Weird Feeling' Leads To Arrest Of Peeper, Police Say

A Gillette mother's strange gut feeling led her to check her home camera just in time to spot a 48-year-old man crawling outside her 12-year-old daughter's window, police say. Court documents say police found videos of the girl on the man's phone.

Clair McFarlandNovember 01, 2024

Daren Christopher Abbey reportedly confessed to killing Dustin Kjersem at his Custer Gallatin National Forest campsite Oct. 12. The body was so mutilated it appeard he'd been attacked by a grizzly. Abbey allegedly told authorities he stabbed Kjersem in the neck with a screwdriver and also hit him with an ax.

Montana Man Confesses To Brutal Murder Of Camper, Used Screwdriver And Ax

A Montana man has confessed to the murder of a camper near Big Sky last month that at first was thought to be a grizzly attack because of its brutal nature. He told authorities he killed the camper with a screwdriver and an ax.

David MadisonNovember 01, 2024

Fort Washakie Man Who Killed Man In Front Of Carload Of Witnesses Gets 16 Years

A Fort Washakie, Wyoming, man was sentenced Thursday to 16 years in prison for second-degree murder for stabbing and killing a 20-year-old man. He stabbed the man along a road in front of a carload of witnesses.

Clair McFarlandNovember 01, 2024

Asher James Fritz, 3, from left, his mother Amber Marie Fritz and her mother Khristy Kay (McKenney) Fritz. They were found deceased in their Riverton home Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, which was filled with carbon monoxide, suspected to have leaked into their home via a water heater.

3 Found Dead In Carbon Monoxide Leak In Riverton Home, Faulty Water Heater Suspected

Riverton police suspect a faulty water heater may have caused the carbon monoxide leak in which two women and a toddler were found dead early Thursday morning. They were discovered when someone did a welfare check at the home.

Clair McFarlandNovember 01, 2024

A 17-year-old girl was stabbed in the abdomen on Halloween night in the 1500 block of North Poplar Street in Casper.

Casper Girl, 17, Charged With Stabbing Another Teen On Halloween

A 17-year-old Casper girl was charged as an adult Friday in Casper Circuit Court with felony aggravated assault stemming from the stabbing of another 17-year-old girl on Thursday night. She’s was charged as an adult.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 01, 2024

Evansville Man Pleads Not Guilty To Almost Killing 1-Year-Old

A 31-year-old Evansville man pleaded not guilty to four felony child abuse charges Thursday in Natrona County District Court. One victim was a 1-year-old boy whose injuries were so bad he was nearly killed, the prosecutor says.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 31, 2024

A search is on for James Johnson of Encampment, Wyoming, who hasn't been heard from since leaving to go hunting in the Medicine Bow National Forest on Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 30, 2024. His truck has been found, but not Johnson.

Family Of Missing Wyoming Hunter Overjoyed At His Rescue

A man from Encampment went missing overnight Wednesday while hunting elk in the Medicine Bow National Forest, but was found alive around 3:45 p.m. Thursday. His family was overjoyed with the news.

Clair McFarlandOctober 31, 2024

Sheridan Media interactive media manager Steve Schreffler was at the scene Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, of a car that rolled into Little Goose Creek off of Coffeen Avenue in Sheridan. The woman driving the car was rescued and remains in a local hospital.

Sheridan Woman Who Drove Car Into River Says She Passed Out

A Sheridan, Wyoming, woman remains hospitalized after her car went down an embankment and into Little Goose Creek on Wednesday. She told Cowboy State Daily on Thursday that she passed out and woke behind a deployed airbag with water rushing into her car.

Clair McFarlandOctober 31, 2024

A male juvenile was shot at an early morning party in the 3200 block of Hamilton Way in Casper on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024.

Teen Pleads Not Guilty to Pistol-Whipping Casper Man, Shooting At Another

A 19-year-old Cheyenne man pleaded not guilty in Natrona County District Court on Thursday to five felony charges for allegedly pistol-whipping a Casper man. He’s also charged with firing a gun at a car with three people in it.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 31, 2024

Riverton School Board Candidate Accused Of Molesting Child, Drops Out Of Race

Hunter DeVries, 23, announced his candidacy for Fremont County School District 25 board in August. On Friday, he dropped out of the race, and on Monday was charged with first-degree sexual abuse of a minor on claims he molested an 11-year-old boy for months.

Clair McFarlandOctober 30, 2024

Cowboy Roper Accused Of Stealing $3,800 From Jackson Hole Rodeo

A roping contestant and former employee of the Jackson Hole Rodeo is accused of stealing $3,800 from the organization. He allegedly tweaked and re-deposited his winnings and paychecks via a virtual deposit app.

Clair McFarlandOctober 30, 2024

The Sheridan County School District No. 2 administration building at 201 N. Connor St. in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Judge: Sheridan School Board Violated Man's Speech Rights During Mask Debate

The Sheridan County School District Board chair wouldn’t allow a local man to criticize the superintendent over masking at a 2022 public meeting. A federal judge ruled last week that the man’s free speech rights were violated.

Clair McFarlandOctober 29, 2024

Jakob Klinger appears left on a video screen, in Casper Circuit Court Monday. He is charged with three counts of driving while under the influence with serious bodily injury.

Police Say Casper Man Was Drunk When He Plowed Into Car With Teens

A 23-year-old Casper, Wyoming, man faces three felony charges after police say he ran a stop sign while drunk Sunday night and hit a car with three teens. All three were injured as was the man’s mother in his pickup.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 29, 2024

Gillette Police Claim Woman Chuckled While Trying To Frame Man For Assaulting Her

A Gillette woman faces two counts of false crime reporting on claims that she tried to frame a male friend for stabbing and beating her. Gillette police say she chuckled while making a 911 report.

Clair McFarlandOctober 29, 2024

Wheatland Men Accused Of Stealing Valuable Boulders From Albany County Ruby Mine

Two men who were recently living in Wheatland, Wyoming, are facing felony theft charges on claims they stole boulders from an Albany County ruby mining claim. The large rocks could contain rubies each worth up to $4,000.

Clair McFarlandOctober 28, 2024

Quick-Acting Staffers Save Moorcroft Student Who Overdosed At Volleyball Game

A Moorcroft Secondary School student who stopped breathing after a drug overdose at an Oct. 4 volleyball game was rescued by nurses and staffers. They used a swift dose of Narcan, the principal told Cowboy State Daily on Monday.

Clair McFarlandOctober 28, 2024

Supreme Court Rules Child Molester Can't Bash Child Victim At Trial

A Wyoming district court judge was right to not allow a molester to raise allegations of unrelated sexual misconduct against his child victim at trial, the Wyoming Supreme Court says in a Friday ruling.

Clair McFarlandOctober 28, 2024

Wyoming state Reps. Cody Wylie, left, and J.T. Larson, both Rock Springs Republicans, are suing over election mailers they claim are deliberately false and misleading.

Freedom Caucus Wants Lawsuit Over Misleading Political Mailers Thrown Out

The campaign arm of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus on Friday filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against it by two state legislators. They accuse the group of sending out deliberately false and misleading mailers and text messages.

Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2024

Guilty Plea For Yellowstone Concession Worker Who Attacked Park Ranger

Chloe Lynn Tullis, a contract worker in Yellowstone, changed her plea from not guilty to guilty in the U.S. District Court for Wyoming on one charge of assaulting a federal police officer and another of interfering with one.

Clair McFarlandOctober 25, 2024

Hannelore Sue Tolliver and Scott Schroefel have both been charged for allegedly running illegal online gambling operatons from several locations throughout Wyoming.

Two Accused Of Running Illegal Online Gambling Operations In Gillette And Casper

A Gillette woman appeared in a Casper courtroom Thursday accused of helping run illegal gambling operations out of coffee shops and a vape store in three Wyoming towns. Her boss, a Casper man, was charged earlier this month.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 25, 2024

Kidnapped Teen Girl Saved After Wyoming High-Speed Chase Is Second In 5 Days

For the second time in five days, Wyoming law enforcement rescued a teen girl who was kidnapped in another state. A man was arrested Thursday after trying to dodge spike strips while being chased north on I-25, then south again after he inexplicably turned around.

Greg JohnsonOctober 25, 2024

Brief: Fremont County Coroner Seeks Someone To Claim Body Of Washington Man

A 64-year-old Washington state man died Oct. 13 after rolling his Jeep in Dubois, Wyoming, with a 0.298% blood-alcohol concentration. Now the local coroner is seeking someone to claim his body.

Clair McFarlandOctober 25, 2024

Gene Clemetson in a June 2024 file photo.

Cheyenne PD Wants Dismissal Of Racism Claim From Red Light Traffic Stop

The Cheyenne Police Department is asking a federal judge to dismiss a Black man’s racial discrimination lawsuit, saying the man didn’t stay within the rules for making that claim.

Clair McFarlandOctober 24, 2024

Former Riverton Cop Busted With Mail-Order Steroids Gets Deal

A former Riverton Police Department officer accused of mail-ordering illegal steroids has signed a plea agreement that could keep a felony off his record. Logan Alley admitted to buying the illegal steroids for his own use, court documents say.

Clair McFarlandOctober 24, 2024

Thermopolis FFA Alumni Treasurer Accused Of Embezzling More Than $15,000

The treasurer of the Thermopolis, Wyoming, Future Farmers of America alumni committee is accused of embezzling more than $15,000 from the group. She allegedly admitted to police she took the money.

Clair McFarlandOctober 24, 2024

Casper Man Who Killed Alleged Child Molester Sues Over Toe Amputated In Prison

A Casper, Wyoming, man who killed his granddaughter’s alleged molester four years ago is suing a health care provider over his toe being amputated in prison. He claims the doctors didn't apply the right salve to a wound.

Clair McFarlandOctober 23, 2024

Douglas Woman Gets 14-23 Years In Prison For Abusing, Killing Mother

Edwina Leman was sentenced to between 14 and 23 years in prison for abusing her elderly mother and fatally injuring her. The prosecutor played videos in court, of Leman attacking and insulting her sickly mother. A defense attorney said Leman suffered from caretaker’s burnout.

Clair McFarlandOctober 23, 2024

In Brief: Appeals Court Upholds Order To Allow 195-Foot Wapiti Cell Tower

A federal appeals court Friday backed a lower court's order that the Park County Commission must OK the building of a 195-foot cellphone tower in Wapiti just outside Yellowstone National Park.

Clair McFarlandOctober 23, 2024

Woman Who Killed Ex By Running Him Down In SUV In Rock Springs Gets 45 To Life

A Utah woman who killed her ex-boyfriend by running him over in an SUV in a Rock Springs parking lot was sentenced Tuesday. Rene Daniels will serve between 45 years and life in prison.

Clair McFarlandOctober 22, 2024

Thermopolis Man Sues Cops, Deputies Over Break-In And Tasing

A Thermopolis man filed a federal lawsuit Monday against Thermopolis cops and local deputies. He claims he was tased and injured by officers when they illegally broke into his home.

Clair McFarlandOctober 22, 2024

Casper Juvenile Male In Serious Condition After Early Morning Shooting At Party

A juvenile male was shot by an underage suspect at an early morning party Saturday in Casper. The victim is in serious condition, while little information is being released about the city’s latest in a string of violent youth assaults and killings.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 21, 2024

Wyoming Troopers Save Kidnapped Teen Girl From Sex Offender And “Wanted Predator”

A 13-year-old South Dakota girl allegedly abducted by a registered sex offender was recovered by Wyoming State Troopers on Sunday. Hours after the girl was reported missing, the suspect tried to outrun the WHP and was caught near Rawlins.

Greg JohnsonOctober 21, 2024

Blue, who asked to be identified by her first name, attends a weeklong celebration in Colombia hosted by Afton, Wyoming-based Libertas International after its founder, Tyler Schwab, and his nonprofit helped rescue her from her sex trafficker, who was recently arrested in Argentina.

Wyoming Man Helps Rescue Girl Abused By Dad And Trafficked For Sex By Mom

When she was 7, her dad abused her, and her mother began sex trafficking her to men when she was 10. Now Blue is 18 and trying to help children after being rescued with the help of a Wyoming man and her new Cowboy State “mother.”

Jen KocherOctober 19, 2024

Douglas Man Guilty Of Killing Cousin After Drinking Binge, Jury Finds

A Douglas man who had a long and sometimes traumatic Army career was found guilty of second-degree murder Friday. Mark Helms shot his cousin to death after a night of drinking in September 2023.

Clair McFarlandOctober 19, 2024

Wyoming Man Trying To Get Federal Machine Gun Ban Overturned

A Wapiti, Wyoming, man is trying to overturn the nation's general ban on machine guns, and on Friday took his case to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. A firearms law experts says he makes a "respectable" argument, but a 2008 court ruling will likely block him.

Clair McFarlandOctober 19, 2024

Shoshoni Woman Pleads Guilty To Shooting Naked Boyfriend, But Not His Harley

A Shoshoni woman could get up to seven years in prison after admitting Tuesday that she shot her naked boyfriend in the foot while he was putting his pants on. She was also accused of shooting his Harley-Davidson but that charge was dropped.

Clair McFarlandOctober 18, 2024

Sean Brennan walks to a Fremont County jail transport van Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, after pleading not guilty to a child sex charge in Lander

Wyoming Man Caught In Child Sex Sting Video Pleads Not Guilty

A 57-year-old Hudson, Wyoming, man who was shown in a vigilante sex-crime YouTube video in Lander pleaded not guilty to a felony charge Thursday. He’s charged with attempted third-degree sexual abuse of a minor.

Clair McFarlandOctober 18, 2024

Fremont County officials scrambled Wednesday afternoon Oct. 16, 2024, when high winds whipped up a small grass fire. It threatened to jump the Wind River into the thicker residential areas of Riverton.

205-Acre Wind River Fire Started In Trash Barrel And Burned One Home

A fire near Riverton on the Wind River Indian Reservation on Wednesday started in a trash barrel and burned one home. The fire quickly blew up to more than 200 acres and jumped the river before firefighters knocked it down.

Clair McFarlandOctober 17, 2024

A construction crew found a dead person Monday morning on private land south of Cheyenne. Authorities have been working all day to recover the body, says a top sheriff’s deputy.

50-Person Search For Body Parts Near Cheyenne Got “All That We Could Find”

Laramie County officials have finished a 50-person search for human remains in a field south of Cheyenne, getting “all that we could find.” Now begins what could be a lengthy process of investigating who the person was.

Clair McFarlandOctober 17, 2024

Dustin Kjersem, 35, was found dead in his tent at about 10 a.m. Saturday in a remote campsite near Big Sky, Montana. It was initially thought that he was fatally mauled by a grizzly, but now authorities suspect that he was murdered.

Montana Man’s Death First Thought To Be Grizzly Mauling, Now Suspected Murder

A grizzly attack was initially suspected in the death of a Montana man found dead in his tent Saturday. But on Wednesday, authorities announced they’re now investigating it as a murder.

Mark HeinzOctober 17, 2024

Nicholas Blackburn, center, walked to the Fremont County jail transport van Thursday after pleading not guilty to killing his friend.

Riverton Man Charged With Beating Friend To Death Pleads Not Guilty

Accused of beating his friend to death in March, a 30-year-old Riverton man pleaded not guilty Thursday to manslaughter. The parents of his alleged victim cried in court and clutched a framed photograph of their son during the hearing.

Clair McFarlandOctober 17, 2024

Brenceis Jimenez, from left, Felix Carrera and Brandon Warden.

New Charge For Laramie Man Accused Of Duct-Taping And Torturing Woman

A Laramie man accused of duct-taping and torturing a woman is now charged with pressuring his victim into saying he didn't do it. His case rose to the Albany County District Court on Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandOctober 17, 2024

Jackson Hotel Worker Called In Sick A Month Ago, Hasn't Been Heard From Since

Police in Jackson, Wyoming, are asking for help in finding a 30-year-old hotel worker who’s been missing for a month. Braigene Collins called in sick to work Sept. 14 and hasn’t been heard from since.

Jen KocherOctober 17, 2024

A grass fire off of Red Crow Lane on the north end of the Wind River Indian Reservation threatened Wednesday evening to jump the Wind River, into residential Riverton. It also prompted the evacuation of at least one home on the reservation side of the river.

Grass Fire Threatens Wind River Homes, Planes Respond

Fremont County officials scrambled Wednesday afternoon when high winds whipped up a small grass fire on the north end of the Wind River Indian Reservation, which jumped the Wind River and headed toward dense brush and thicker residential areas of Riverton, and prompted the evacuation of at least one home.

Clair McFarlandOctober 17, 2024

Man Charged With Bludgeoning Mother To Death May Be Sane Now

Israel Melvin, 24, charged with murder after police found his mother bludgeoned to death in January, is sane enough for a competency hearing, his attorney and a judge indicated Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandOctober 16, 2024

Rock Springs Police Officers Literally Dodge Bullets Fired From House

Rock Springs police say a man shot at them from inside his home Monday, barely missing an officer who ducked. Police arrested Kevin William Lorentzen on suspicion of aggravated assault and reckless endangering.

Clair McFarlandOctober 16, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon has instructed Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill to join 21 other states in a brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to leave child sex change bans to states.

Wyoming Wants Supreme Court To Let States Decide Bans On Child Sex Changes

Wyoming joined 21 other states Tuesday urging the U.S. Supreme Court to leave decisions about regulating child sex changes to states. The federal government, on the other hand, says access to child sex changes is a constitutional right.

Clair McFarlandOctober 16, 2024

Thermopolis police and Hot Springs County sheriff's deputies have an area cordoned off near the 300 block of Clark Street on Monday evening, Sept. 9, 2024, after an officer-involved shooting that killed a 41-year-old man reportedly weilding a bat.

Special Prosecutor To Review Thermopolis Officer-Involved Shooting

Fremont County Attorney Patrick LeBrun has been appointed as the special prosecutor investigating a Sept. 9 Thermopolis officer-involved shooting, LeBrun confirmed Tuesday. It's his fifth time reviewing an officer-involved shooting.

Clair McFarlandOctober 15, 2024

A helicopter helps in the early search for Austin King in this file photo.

Search For Missing Hiker Stopped After U.S. Forest Service Denies Helicopter Drop

U.S. Forest Service authorities declined to authorize a helicopter drop of searchers into a remote region to look for missing hiker Austin King, who vanished last month. Federal officials said the attempt was too risky.

Clair McFarlandOctober 15, 2024

A grou of 50 investigators prepared a systematic “grid” search Tuesday morning to gather some human remains still left in a private field, after construction workers found some of the remains Monday

50 Investigators Search For More Body Parts In Field South Of Cheyenne

Construction workers found human remains on private land south of Cheyenne on Monday. About 50 investigators were on scene Tuesday, searching for the rest of the body.

Clair McFarlandOctober 15, 2024

Construction Workers Find Human Remains South Of Cheyenne

A construction crew found human remains Monday on private land south of Cheyenne. Investigators say portions of the body were scattered due to weather or wild animals.

Clair McFarlandOctober 15, 2024

Lander Man Accused Of Stalking And Beating Ex With Bat Caught After Four Years

A Lander, Wyoming, man accused of beating his ex-girlfriend and her boyfriend with a baseball bat saw his case rise to the felony-level court Friday — four years after charges were first filed.

Clair McFarlandOctober 14, 2024

The home where Burdick Nelson Seminole Sr. allegedly killed Michael Standingelk, a landlord in a wheelchair.

Man Accused Of Gunning Down Disabled Landlord Drops Insanity Plea

A Fremont County man accused of gunning down and killing his former landlord, who was in a wheelchair, has dropped an insanity plea. Burdick Seminole allegedly told police he had enough of the other man “talking smack” about him.

Clair McFarlandOctober 14, 2024

The Wyoming Department of Transporation will place memorial signs for families of loved ones who died in crashes on state highways. They're a compromise to discourage illegal and potentially dangerous private memorials.

Reader Question: What Are Those Broken Heart Signs Along Wyoming Highways?

A Cowboy State Daily reader asked us about those white and red signs on the highway that feature a broken heart and a dove. They act as memorials for families in honor of their loved ones who lost their lives in traffic crashes on state and federal highways and interstates.

Jackie DorothyOctober 13, 2024

Be Cautious With QR Codes: The Latest Scams Are Ingenious

Wyoming cybersecurity experts warn about a growing threat going into the holiday season — scanning QR codes with your phone. If you’re not careful, they can be yet another way digital thieves can rob you blind.

Jen KocherOctober 13, 2024

Andrea and Scott warner pose with Dale during a visit to the Wyoming Honor Conservation Camp outside Newcastle. Now 20, Dale Warner was 14 when he took guns to school and threatened to kill people. He now says he deserves to be in prison, and that it's saved his life.

At 14, Dale Warner Threatened School Killings In Gillette; Now He Says Prison Saved His Life

Dale Warner was 14 when he brought two guns to a Wyoming junior high school and threatened to kill people. Now 20 and serving a 12- to 20-year sentence, he says prison saved his life.

Jen KocherOctober 12, 2024

Tulio Garcia Salazar, aka Juan Carlos Garcia Salazar

Judge Wants Guatemalan Man Deported From Rock Springs After Fourth DUI

A Guatemalan man who smashed into a parked trailer in Rock Springs while drunk, leading to his fourth DUI arrest in the United States, was ordered to report for deportation this week.

Clair McFarlandOctober 11, 2024

Sheridan Deputies Find Burglary Evidence All Over Suspects' Snapchat

Four young men face felony charges after at least one of them posted evidence to Snapchat of their alleged escapades robbing the Big Horn Y gas station in Sheridan, Wyoming. One suspect reportedly texted a Snapchat contact, “Yeah, We Robbed It.”

Clair McFarlandOctober 11, 2024

This handwritten note was left at the registry at the summit of Eagle Peak on Sept. 17 by Austin King. He's been missing since.

Missing Yellowstone Hiker's Note A Clue For Volunteer Search Teams Now Mobilizing

The father of a 22-year-old hiker missing since Sept. 17 after summiting Yellowstone’s highest peak is coordinating private and volunteer search teams to help find his son. One of their clues is a note the hiker left at the mountain's summit.

Clair McFarlandOctober 11, 2024

Driver Accused Of 'Catastrophically Dismembering' Motorcyclists Pleads Not Guilty

A man accused of smashing into a trike motorcycle on a Wyoming highway so hard the two riders were “catastrophically dismembered” pleaded not guilty Thursday. An investigation shows he was allegedly high on meth and driving at least 86 mph.

Clair McFarlandOctober 10, 2024

Trae Spurlock tries to flee out the balcony door of his apartment and is tased in this still image from body cam video.

Casper Officer Cleared To Return To Duty After Not Charged In Shooting

A Casper Police Department officer who won’t be charged for shooting and killing a domestic violence suspect has been cleared to return to duty, the CPD announced Thursday.

Clair McFarlandOctober 10, 2024

Judge Orders OK Of Controversial 195-Foot Cell Tower Just Outside Yellowstone

A federal judge has ordered the Park County Commission to approve a company's request to build a 195-foot cellphone tower in a scenic area just outside Yellowstone National Park — by Friday. The county is fighting the order in a higher court.

Clair McFarlandOctober 10, 2024

This image from body cam video released by the Casper Police Department shows the moments right after an officer fired seven shots at suspect Trae Spurlock, hitting him six times. Spurlock's face has been intentionally blurred.

No Charges For Officer Who Shot, Killed Casper Man Who Talked About "Death By Cop"

Citing a shortage of evidence to support a criminal case, Natrona County District Attorney Dan Itzen decided this week not to charge a Casper Police Department officer who shot and killed Trae Spurlock, 26, in June.

Clair McFarlandOctober 10, 2024

China Bosh of Gillette was stabbed eight times during an attack in her home Saturday, including five times in the arm, twice in the chest and once in her face. She says she now wakes up from nightmares when trying to sleep.

Stabbed 8 Times, Gillette Woman Wracked With Nightmares

A Gillette woman whose husband is accused of stabbing her eight times Saturday says she now has nightmares that keep her awake. She also has some hard-won advice for other domestic violence victims: “definitely get out.”

Clair McFarlandOctober 08, 2024

“I’ll Miss You Forever,” Posts Daughter Of Sundance Man Shot By Deputy

The Crook County coroner has identified the man killed in a deputy-involved shooting Saturday in Sundance, Wyoming, as 48-year-old Joseph Keith Neimeyer. “I’ll miss you forever,” his adult daughter posted to Facebook.

Clair McFarlandOctober 08, 2024

Douglas Police Shoot Person While Responding To Domestic Disturbance

A Douglas police officer responding to a domestic disturbance shot a person after police say he or she displayed a handgun. The person was taken to a Converse County hospital, but whether the person survived or not hasn't been reported.

Clair McFarlandOctober 08, 2024

Former Casper Detectives To Get $200K For Claims Of Sexually Hostile Workplace

Two former female Casper police detectives will get $200,000 to settle claims of a sexually hostile workplace. Those include a male detective bragging to them about the size of his penis.

Clair McFarlandOctober 07, 2024

Gillette Man Accused Of Stabbing Woman Repeatedly Caught After Brief Manhunt

Accused of stabbing a woman repeatedly before sparking a one-day manhunt, a Gillette man was in court Monday. John Stetson Bosh had previously been convicted for strangulating a household member, according to a prosecutor.

Clair McFarlandOctober 07, 2024

Crook County Deputy Shoots And Kills Home Invasion Suspect

Crook County deputies shot and killed a home invasion suspect Saturday in Sundance, Wyoming. The suspect was found walking nearby and reportedly raised a gun toward one of the deputies.

Clair McFarlandOctober 07, 2024

Man Shows Weapon To Natrona County Deputy At Traffic Stop, Flees, Takes Own Life

The Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation is investigating a Casper traffic stop on Sunday where the driver showed a weapon to a deputy, fired it, and drove off. After pursuit, the individual took his own life.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 06, 2024

State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, during the 2024 legislative session.

Zwonitzer Voted For Wyoming’s Child Sex-Change Ban, Now Arguing Against Tennessee’s

State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer voted for Wyoming’s ban on sex-change treatments for children, but is arguing in the Supreme Court against a similar ban in Tennessee. He says his Wyoming vote was a compromise, and he’s fighting for parental rights.

Clair McFarlandOctober 04, 2024

Teen Charged In Cheyenne School Shooting Threat Had Paper Gun

An 18-year-old charged with making a shooting threat at Cheyenne East High School last week turned himself in to police Tuesday. He reportedly had a paper gun in the school.

Clair McFarlandOctober 03, 2024

Prosecutor Has Evidence To Try Lyman Man For Murder One, Judge Rules

A Lyman, Wyoming, man accused of killing an acquaintance by shooting him 6-10 times with a .45-caliber pistol will face a first-degree murder charge. An Evanston judge advanced his case to felony-level court Thursday.

Clair McFarlandOctober 03, 2024

Former Riverton Police Department Detective Billy Whiteplume has filed a civil lawsuit alleging racial discrimination, retaliation and a hostile workplace.

Former Riverton Officer’s Lawsuit Settlement Was $5,000

The City of Riverton on Wednesday released its lawsuit settlement agreement with Billy Whiteplume, a former Riverton police detective, revealing that the city’s liability pool paid out $5,000.

Clair McFarlandOctober 03, 2024

Cody Pair Accused Of Trafficking 7,000 Fentanyl Pills, Meth From Aurora, Colorado

Korinne McKay and Wayne Wright of Cody face up to 80 years in prison each for allegedly bringing 7,000 fentanyl pills and meth into Wyoming. They're accused of trafficking the drugs from Aurora, Colorado.

Clair McFarlandOctober 02, 2024

Austin King, left, with his father, Brian King-Henke

Missing Yellowstone Hiker’s Dad: “Just Keep Praying For Him”

Austin King hasn't been heard of since to summited the tallest peak in Yellowstone National Park on Sept. 17. The 22-year-old's father asks people to "just keep praying for him" even as officials scale back search efforts for him.

Clair McFarlandOctober 02, 2024

Ashley and Sean Willey, left, are suing the Sweetwater County School District on claims it socially gender-transitioined their teen behind their backs. They've brought in a nationally known expert to bolster their lawsuit in Dr. Miriam Grossman, right.

Wyoming Parents Suing Over School's Gender Transition Tap National Expert

The couple suing a Wyoming school district on claims that staffers worked to socially gender-transition their teen behind their backs is planning to bring a nationally known expert to trial with them.

Clair McFarlandOctober 01, 2024

A firetruck tends to an active fire line on a Johnson County ranch during the House Draw Fire in this file photo. The House Draw fire was started Aug. 21, the same day as a much smaller, 30-acre fire that began in a burn barrel.

Johnson County Prosecutor's Wife Pleads Guilty To Starting 30-Acre Fire

Wife of Johnson County’s top prosecutor admits starting a 30-acre wildfire the same day the House Draw fire was started. While pleading guilty, Laura Ruby told a judge she used a burn barrel on her property during a county burning ban.

Clair McFarlandOctober 01, 2024

Former Riverton Police Officer Who Claimed Hostile, Racist Treatment Settles Lawsuit

The first enrolled Northern Arapaho Tribal member to become a Riverton police officer has settled a lawsuit he filed against the Riverton Police Department and city. He had claimed a hostile and racially offensive work environment.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 30, 2024

Cheyenne Man Gets 5-7 Years For Shooting Man In Foot In “Instance Of Stupidity”

A 19-year-old Cheyenne man got five to seven years in prison Monday for shooting his brother's justified killer in the foot earlier this year. Saying the crime doesn’t fit his character, the judge called the shooting an “instance of stupidity.”

Clair McFarlandSeptember 30, 2024

Man Accused Of Bleaching Out $1 Bills To Make $100 Bills Could Get 45 Years

An Oregon man caught in a Wyoming drug bust is accused in a federal indictment of bleaching out $1 bills to make fake $100 bills. Although he was acquitted on the drug charges, he could get up to 45 years if convicted of counterfeiting.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 30, 2024

Some Casper Parents Keep Kids Home After School Threat To Kill People

A threat posted online that a student planned to kill people at noon Monday prompted some parents to keep their kids home. They’re also frustrated from a lack of information and a perception the district and police are downplaying the threat.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 30, 2024

Austin King, a 22-year-old concession worker in Yellowstone National Park, has been missing since he summited Eagle Peak on Sept. 17.

Family Says Search For Missing Yellowstone Hiker Shifts From “Rescue” To “Recovery”

A search in Yellowstone National Park for a missing 22-year-old hiker has shifted focus from “rescue” to “recovery,” the man’s family has announced. But the park was unwilling Friday to confirm that.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 2024

18-Year-Old Charged In Fourth Of July Shooting Over Fireworks At Casper Park

An 18-year-old has been charged nearly three months after a man was shot in a Casper park on the Fourth of July during a dispute over fireworks. A video of the shooting surfaced earlier this month and clearly shows the suspect’s face, police report.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 27, 2024

Thermopolis sign Steve Elliott via Flckr 9 27 24

Thermopolis Man Gets 30-50 Years For Molesting Boy For 10 Years

A 44-year-old Thermopolis, Wyoming, man was sentenced to between 30 and 50 years in prison for molesting a boy from ages 4-14, according to an order filed Thursday. He reportedly finally stopped when another boy claimed he also was molested.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 2024

Suspect In Ethete Convenience Store Shooting Pleads Not Guilty

A Fremont County man pleaded not guilty Thursday to claims that he shot another man repeatedly outside a convenience store in Ethete, Wyoming, last month. Dustin Larson Trosper could face between 25 years and life in prison.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 2024

Accused Torrington Girlfriend-Beater Evaded Earlier Charges For Eight Years

A Torrington, Wyoming, man accused of brutally beating and pistol-whipping his girlfriend had evaded police for eight years on earlier charges. Those cases also include allegations of beating another woman, burglary.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 2024

Cheyenne police and Laramie County deputies responded to a report of a student who had a gun at East High School on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024. But the report turned out to be unfounded. An 18-year-old student was later charged with allegedly making the threat.

Fake Post About Kid Shot At East High In Cheyenne Sparks Fear, Frustration

A fake social media post claiming a student had been shot at East High School in Cheyenne triggered local parents into a frenzy of fear and worry Thursday. There was a report of a student with a gun at school, but it wasn’t true, police say.

Greg JohnsonSeptember 26, 2024

Rajion Vu is accused of shooting and killing a man in a drug deal gone bad near this intersection in Casper.

Wyoming Man Admits Killing Another During Drug Deal Gone Bad

An Evansville, Wyoming, man admitted Thursday that he killed another during a Feb. 1 drug deal gone bad in Casper. By pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter, Rajion Vu avoids a second-degree murder trial.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 26, 2024

Quick-Acting Teacher Discovers Gun At Rock Springs High School

An alert teacher discovered a Rock Springs High School student had a firearm in the school and confiscated it Thursday morning. The discovery led to the arrest of a male student.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 26, 2024

Gillette Man Accused Of Exposing Himself To Young Boy In Store Bathroom

A 54-year-old Gillette man is accused of exposing himself to a young boy in a Walmart bathroom. The man allegedly admitted exposing himself, but denies asking the boy to touch him.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 26, 2024

Wyoming Woman Who Tortured, Starved And Confined Son Gets 10 Years

An Arapahoe, Wyoming, woman who tortured and starved her 13-year-old son last year was sentenced to 10 years in prison Tuesday. Kandace Sitting Eagle and her husband Truman also beat him and kept him trapped in his room.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 26, 2024

Jackson Police Catch Suspected Serial Flasher, Who Says Pants Just “Fell Down”

Hours after posting to Facebook about an alleged serial flasher, Jackson police arrested a local man. He gave a “mild admission” to flashing multiple women and girls, saying his pants just “fell down” while wiping sweat from his face.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 25, 2024

Cody Police Arrest Man Accused Of Montana Road Rage Death

Cody police arrested a man Tuesday on allegations he killed someone in a road rage-induced hit-and-run in. That was a day after he was released on bond in a case where he fired a crossbow bolts onto an airport runway.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 25, 2024

After claiming someone had poisoned his horses, Converse County resident Joe Bright has pleaded not contest to starving them.

Rancher Who Claimed Horses Were “Poisoned” Fined For Starving Them

A Shawnee, Wyoming, rancher was fined $500 Tuesday in Douglas Circuit Court after pleading no contest to starving horses he’d earlier claimed were poisoned. But Joe Bright maintains he's innocent and loves his horses like family.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 24, 2024

The Jackson Police Department is looking for a serial flasher who has been exposing himself to women in a big-box store and a bike path.

Brief: Police Searching For Serial Flasher Loose In Jackson

A serial flasher is on the loose in Jackson, Wyoming, police say. He’s described as a male on the smaller side, standing 5-foot-5 and about 130 pounds with black hair.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 24, 2024

Douglas Smith, 68, was arrested June 25, 2024, in California on suspicion of first-degree murder for the killing of two men during a 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in Cheyenne.

No Death Penalty For Accused Coin Shop Killer, $500,000 Bond Set

The man accused of gunning down two people in a Cheyenne coin shop in 2015 won’t face the death penalty if convicted. That makes him eligible for bond, which a judge on Monday set at $500,000.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

Wyoming Supreme Court Opens Door To Sue Cops, Legislators Want To Close It

The Wyoming Supreme Court opened the door for people to sue cops for negligent investigations. But some state legislators want to close it, voting Friday to draft a bill that would undo the high court’s ruling.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 23, 2024

Casey W. Jackson, 47, of Casper, right, faces seven charges following an incident where a crossbow arrow went through a kitchen window early last Friday.

Casper Man Accused Of Firing Crossbow Bolt Through Ex’s Window

A 47-year-old Casper man is accused of firing crossbow bolts at the home of his ex-girlfriend, including one that went through her window. During his initial hearing Friday, Casey Jackson said the charges are “all alleged.”

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 23, 2024

Austin King has been missing since summiting Eagle Peak in Yellowstone National Park on Sept. 17.

Yellowstone Concession Worker Vanishes After Summiting Park’s Highest Peak

The search is on for Austin King, a 22-year-old concession worker at Yellowstone, who reached the top of the park's highest peak last Tuesday and hasn’t been heard from since. An experienced hiking guide in the area says weather, terrain and bears are all potential hazards.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 23, 2024

The Walmart Superstore in Riverton, Wyoming.

Riverton Man Could Get 10 Years For Skip-Scanning $2,200 Worth Of Football Cards

A Riverton man is accused of scanning cheap Post-it notes and other items instead of $2,200 worth of football trading cards at the local Walmart. The skip-scanning scam could get him 10 years in prison.

Jen KocherSeptember 23, 2024

Chris Hicks has spent half of his 38 years in prison for being an accessory in two Gillette murders in 2005.

Should Adults Convicted As Teens And Serving Life Sentences Get a Second Chance?

After Chris Hicks was convicted of conspiracy to commit two murders at age 19, he was sentenced to life without parole. Now 18 years later, his lawyer is trying to overturn the sentence to give him a second chance.

Jen KocherSeptember 22, 2024

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Nogales, Arizona, seized nearly $4.6 million in fentanyl and meth totaling close to 650 pounds in January 2019.

Rocky Mountain High: Utah "Absolutely Obliterates" Record For Fentanyl Seizures

In the first quarter of 2024, the DEA has seized a record number of fentanyl pills in the Rocky Mountain region and is on pace to break all records in the area. Utah “absolutely obliterated” its record for fentanyl seizures and Colorado is likely to break its record too.

Jen KocherSeptember 21, 2024

Frank Berris during a traffic stop he recorded and posted to his public YouTube channel.

'Sovereign Citizen' Gets 7 Years In Prison For Having Guns As A Felon

A Casper, Wyoming, man was sentenced Friday to seven years in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. Saying he’s a sovereign citizen, he told officers during a traffic stop they’d have to kill him before eventually surrendering.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 21, 2024

In this image from body cam video, Sgt. Mike Mascorro retreats after being shot by Buck Laramore on April 28, 2023.

Wyoming Cop Trainer Blames Break-Ins, Lawsuits On Poor Search And Seizure Training

A Casper police sergeant who teaches other cops search and seizure laws told Wyoming lawmakers Thursday that cops need better training. He said that may prevent problems like a recent cop break-in court settlement and a cop-involved shooting.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 20, 2024

The entrance to the Wyoming State Crime Lab in Cheyenne.

Wyoming Crime Lab Fails Proficiency, Has To Review More Than 400 Past Gun Tests

After failing a firearms proficiency test, the Wyoming State Crime Laboratory is arranging for evidence re-testing in more than 400 cases from the past decade, the Attorney General told lawmakers Thursday.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 20, 2024

Prison interview with Russell Henderson in 2018.

Matthew Shepard Killer's Commutation Request Denied

Russell Henderson, one of two men convicted in Matthew Shepard’s 1998 murder, tried and failed to have his sentence commuted this month, the Wyoming Board of Parole confirmed Thursday to Cowboy State Daily.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 20, 2024

Shots Near Torrington School Raise Alert, But It Was Just A Cow Being Put Down

There was a bit of a scare at Torrington High School Thursday afternoon when shots rang out near the school and then a malfunction sounded the fire alarm. Turns out, the shots were from a nearby livestock sale barn where a cow was put down.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 19, 2024

A still image from body camera video from officers involved in a July 4, 2024, shootout with Samson Fussner, a concessionaire worker who threatened a mass shooting. Fussner, pictured on the ground, was killed and an officer wounded.

Yellowstone Releases Body Camera Footage From July 4 Shootout

Body camera video released Thursday by the National Park Service gives more detail about a July 4 shootout with a Yellowstone concession worker. The worker reportedly threatened a mass shooting, then shot at rangers before being killed.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 19, 2024

Laramie, Wyoming, resident August Raymond Garcia haa been indicted for his alleged role in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. A 15-page indictment dated Sept. 6 and released Wednesday includes photos allegedly showing Garcia at the Capitol that day. The DOJ has circled him in yellow.

Laramie Man Arrested On Claims He Breached Capitol Jan. 6, Wrestled Officer

A Laramie man could face years in prison on claims he was one of the first rioters to enter the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. In a Wednesday statement, the U.S. Attorney's Office alleges he also wrestled with a Capitol Police officer.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 19, 2024

Superior Mayor Wants More Policing, Sheriff Says He Wants Special Treatment

The mayor of Superior, Wyoming — population 180 — complained to the Sweetwater County Commission on Tuesday his town needs more policing. The sheriff says he does handle issues in the town, but the mayor wants special treatment.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 18, 2024

Tourist Burned, Life-Flighted After Walking On Yellowstone Thermal

A 60-year-old tourist from New Hampshire suffered second- and third-degree burns after walking off-trail over a geothermal crust in Yellowstone. The woman was life-flighted to a hospital in Idaho.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 18, 2024

Two motorcyclists have been killed in the past three weeks after crashing into the same Cheyenne building, at right. In both cases, Cheyenne police reports the drivers were speeding.

Two Motorcyclists Dead From Crashing Into Same Cheyenne Building Within 3 Weeks

Two motorcyclists have been killed in the past three weeks after crashing into the same building in Cheyenne. In both cases, the police believe speed was a factor.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 18, 2024

A herd of cows graze Wyoming rangeland in this undated photo.

Feds Say Wyoming Farmers, Miners Not Entitled To Relief From New Lease Rule

In a Friday court filing the federal government defends a new rule that allows the BLM to lease federal land for conservation. Wyoming famers and miners are suing over the rule, which they say allows groups to lease public land solely to not develop on it.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 17, 2024

Sheridan Man Accused Of Dousing Couple With Lighter Fluid So They’d Shoot Him

A Sheridan man will face felony charges for allegedly dousing a sleeping couple with lighter fluid. He reportedly told police he did it to prompt them to shoot him.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 17, 2024

Sheridan County Commissioner Gets Maximum Fine, 8 Days In Jail For DUI

Sheridan County Commissioner Christi Haswell has pleaded guilty to drunk driving and will serve eight days in jail as part of a plea agreement. She also got the maximum fine allowed and a year of unsupervised probation.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 16, 2024

Idaho Company's Bungee Jump From Casper Crime Scene Leaves People Shocked, Sad

People in Casper were shocked and saddened over the weekend when they saw an Idaho company holding bungee-jump sessions at the scene of a crime so tragic that one crime writer called it “the loss of innocence for a whole community.”

Clair McFarlandSeptember 16, 2024

Rock Springs Police Search For Missing 7-Year-Old Who Is Not A Runaway

Update: child has been found. The Rock Springs Police Department is asking for the public's help finding 7-year-old Leo Ressler, an autistic boy who went missing Sunday afternoon. Authorities say he's not a runaway, and he's considered "missing and endangered."

Clair McFarlandSeptember 15, 2024

Elderly Laramie Man Missing Three Weeks Found Dead In His Car

The family of a Laramie man who has been missing for three weeks said they were "devastated" to learn he was found dead in his vehicle Friday, having run off a road into a ravine in a rural part of Carbon County.

Jen KocherSeptember 14, 2024

Adam Aviles Jr., inset, and Katie Ferguson.

‘I believe he killed her’: Boyfriend Of Missing Cody Woman Gets 7 Years On Gun Charge

The boyfriend of a missing Cody woman got seven years in prison Friday on a gun-related charge. But his sentencing unfolded like a murder trial with grisly evidence, and at one point an FBI agent bluntly testifying, “I believe he killed her.”

Clair McFarlandSeptember 14, 2024

Riverton Man Gets 15-20 Years For Burning Girlfriend To Death With Gasoline

A Riverton, Wyoming, man who initially claimed pouring gasoline inside his house, lighting it on fire and killing his girlfriend an accident got 15-20 years in prison Friday. The judge didn’t buy it, saying that “this was not an accident.”

Clair McFarlandSeptember 13, 2024

Michael "M.G." Stellpflug reviews a white board of information and one of the more than 40 binders he sent to entities and proper around the state documenting Tami Hinson's alleged crimes.

Gillette Prosecutor Blasts Defense Attorney For Getting Victim’s Phone Records

A Gillette, Wyoming, prosecutor is blasting a defense attorney for getting nearly two years’ worth of an alleged crime victim’s personal phone records. Even if it’s a questionable thing to do, it could be allowed under Wyoming law.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 13, 2024

Casper Circuit Court Judge Kevin Taheri listens as Tyrone "T-Bone" Jackson answers a question at his initial appearance on Thursday. Jackson is charged with six drug-related felonies and two misdemeanors.

Accused Casper Dealer Named “T-Bone” Tries To Flush Drugs, Charged Anyway

A Casper man who goes by “T-Bone” is accused of dealing drugs and trying to flush the evidence, but faces six felony charges anyway. He attended his first court hearing Thursday via video.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 12, 2024

Corbin Behnke and Campbell County Courthouse 9 12 24

Gillette Teen Pleads Guilty To Soliciting Kids, Bestiality Charge To Be Dropped

A 19-year-old Gillette man has pleaded guilty to five instances of soliciting kids for sex acts, while a charge of bestiality will be dropped. He was busted after a 15-year-old vigilante caught him by setting up a fake Snapchat account.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 12, 2024

A child on a bicycle was hit by a vehile on the way to school in Cody on Thursday morning, Sept. 12, 2024.

Cody Middle-Schooler OK After Running Into Vehicle With Bicycle

A Cody Middle School student is home and "doing good" after a scary incident Thursday morning. Coming fast down a hill on his bicycle, the boy ran into a vehicle, prompting an ambulance response.

Andrew RossiSeptember 12, 2024

Sean Brennan, 57 of Hudson, Wyoming, was confronted Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, in Lander for allegedly having sexually-charged online conversations with decoys he thought were underage girls.

YouTube Predator Hunter Busts Wyoming Man In Child Sex Sting

A Hudson, Wyoming, man remains in jail after he was confronted by an online child predator hunter. A video shows Sean Brennan busted at his job in Lander — and getting immediately fired by his boss.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 11, 2024

“We’re Here To Support Him:” Large Turnout For Riverton Cop’s Felony Steroids Hearing

A crowd of about 20 loved ones attended the initial hearing of a now-former Riverton police officer facing up to five years in prison on a felony steroids possession charge. Some of the people who attended Alley’s hearing wept. All appeared somber throughout.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 11, 2024

Substitute Teacher Claims Cheyenne Police Attacked Him For Being Black

A local man who was kicked out of East High School recently for refusing to use preferred transgender names is suing Cheyenne police. In a Monday lawsuit, he claims he was mistreated and racially profiled during an arrest.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 10, 2024

Cheyenne Police Department at 415 W. 18th St., Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Cheyenne Police Sued Again By Man Who Just Won $127K Settlement

A man who two weeks ago won a $127,500 settlement for alleged mistreatment by a pair of former Cheyenne police officers is suing again. In a lawsuit filed Friday, he now claims police mistreated him during another arrest.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 10, 2024

Man Killed In Thermopolis Officer-Involved Shooting ID’d, 2 Officers On Leave

The man killed during an officer-involved shooting in Thermopolis, Wyoming, on Monday evening as been identified as a local 41-year-old. Also, a police officer and deputy are on paid leave during an investigation into the shooting.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 10, 2024

Multiple agents were on scene Monday evening, Sept. 9., 2024, after an officer-involved shooting prompted road closures along the block and up to the nearby railroad tracks.

Officer-Involved Shooting In Thermopolis After Baseball Bat Incident

Eyewitnesses reported hearing around 10 shots Monday in Thermopolis, Wyoming, after police were called for a welfare check on a man seen thrashing his home and surroundings with a baseball bat. Authorities have confirmed an officer-involved shooting happened.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 10, 2024

Eastbound Interstate 80 at milepost 223 is closed after two semitrailers crashed Saturday morning.

Semi Hitting Another Parked On Shoulder Caused Fatal Crash That Closed I-80

The fiery and fatal crash that closed I-80 for more than eight hours Saturday was caused by a semi smashing into another parked on the shoulder. The Wyoming Highway Patrol on Monday said the driver who hit the parked semi was killed.

Greg JohnsonSeptember 09, 2024

Jackson Worker Who Beat Man For Refusing Sexual Advances Gets 3-5 Years

A Jackson, Wyoming, ski resort worker pleaded guilty to brutally beating another man who reportedly refused his sexual advances. A District Court judge gave him three to five years in prison last week.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 09, 2024

Search Still On For Man Who Vanished In Wyoming On Way To See Kanye West In 2020

Authorities say they’re getting closer to determining what happened to a Washington, D.C., man who vanished in Wyoming, reportedly on his way to see Kanye West in 2020. Although four years old, they say the case isn’t cold.

Jen KocherSeptember 08, 2024

Aftermath of a collisison between two semitrailers that killed one person and engulfed a truck in flames Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.

One Dead After Fiery Semi Crash On Interstate 80 Near Rawlins

A fiery and fatal crash involving two semitrailers Saturday morning closed eastbound I-80 for miles before and after Rawlins for most of the day.

Greg JohnsonSeptember 07, 2024

Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak said he's concerned about the potential for Denver-area gang violence migrating north. And he's frustrated with a lack of information from other agencies.

Suspected Venezuelan Gang Member In Cheyenne Jail, Sheriff Concerned

Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak told Cowboy State Daily a suspected Venezuelan gang member is one of five undocumented aliens in the county jail. He said he is concerned about reported Colorado gang violence because what happens there winds up in Wyoming eventually.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024

Afton Woman Accused Of Stealing Blowtorch, Biting People And Trying To Seduce Cop

A highly intoxicated Afton, Wyoming, woman faces multiple charges after allegedly tried to break into a house, stole a blowtorch and drugs, and bit someone. She’s also accused of trying to seduce a deputy during her arrest.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024

Karla Smith was hospitalized after her 17-year-old son allegedly stabbed her in the back earlier this summer.

Teen Accused Of Stabbing Mom In Back Asks For Mental Health Test

A 17-year-old Campbell County boy accused of stabbing his mother in the back while she was sleeping asked the court Friday for a mental health test. He’s been charged as an adult with attempted first-degree murder.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024

The Campbell County Courthouse in downtown Gillette, Wyoming.

No New Divorce Trial For Gillette Man Who Claims Wife Tried To Have Him Killed

A judge on Thursday said a Gillette, Wyoming, man’s claims that his wife tried to have him killed aren’t enough to win a new divorce trial. "The allegations show maybe a little smoke ... but don't really show any fire," the judge said.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024

Top, from left, William Nicholson and Tayren Smith; bottom, Noah Salazar.

Pair Of Cheyenne Men Accused Of Shooting At Multiple Police Officers

Two Cheyenne men were arrested early Thursday, accused of shooting at two police officers. By pure coincidence, their arrest came just hours after another man accused of firing on one of the shooters earlier this summer turned himself in.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 05, 2024

Zackery Minard, top left, has been sentenced to 10-14 years in prison for molesting a 14-year-old girl. Timothy "TJ" Ott, lower right, got 9-10 years for beating Minard, throwing him in the trunk of a car and driving him to a remote location and leaving him there.

Gillette Man Who Threw Molester In Car Trunk Gets 9-10 Years, Molester Gets 10-14

A Gillette man who beat and threw a 14-year-old girl’s sexual abuser in a car trunk last year was given 9-10 years in prison last week. Meanwhile, the man he kidnapped got 10-14 years for molesting the girl.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 05, 2024

The Belle Ayr coal mine south of Gillette in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming.

“Go Screw Yourself”: Scrap Buyers Deny Claims They Stole From Wyoming Coal Mine

A father and son from Texas are accused of cheating a Wyoming coal mine out of $70,000 worth of scrap metal. They deny the allegations fiercely, telling Cowboy State Daily to “go screw yourself” for reporting on the case.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024

Someone hit the cannon statue at the Rock Springs World War II memorial, knocking a plaque off of it.

Brief: Rock Springs Police Want Truck That Hit Cannon Statue At WWII Memorial

Rock Springs police are looking for an early 1990s model GMC single-cab grey truck suspected of hitting a memorial cannon statue in town. The driver knocked a plaque off the cannon, which is part of a World War II memorial, Tuesday night.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024

Casper police responded to East 12th Street and Country Club Drive early Saturday morning to watch a dark vehicle speed away. After an investigation, a 19-year-old Casper man was arrested on suspicion of pistol-whipping a man and shooting at a car full of people.

Violent String Of Casper Teen Crimes Continues With Pistol-Whipping, Shooting

A violent monthslong string of teen crime in Casper continues with a pistol-whipping and shooting at a car. A 19-year-old was bound over to felony-level court Tuesday, accused of attacking one person and shooting at a car full of cousins.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 04, 2024

Edward Salazar Johnson County Judicial Center courthouses co 9 4 24

Buffalo Man Accused Of Threatening Grocery Store, Police Standoff

A Buffalo, Wyoming, man faces more than five years in prison on claims he pointed a .223-caliber rifle toward a busy street and grocery store while preparing for a standoff with police on his front porch.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024

Murder Charge For Lyman Man Accused Of Shooting Man 10 Times With .45

A Lyman, Wyoming, man has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of another man near Fort Bridger over the weekend. The victim was shot roughly 10 times with a .45-caliber handgun.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024

Officials respond to the crash of a small plane crash Sept. 1, 2024, that killed an Arizona woman. The pilot was hurt but is recovering in a Montana hospital.

Hunters In Right Place, Right Time To Rescue Crashed Pilot Near Meeteetse

A Black Hawk pilot and former sports trainer were hunting in the right place at the right time Sunday to rescue a pilot who crashed his plane near Meeteetse, Wyoming. He’s recovering, but a 78-year-old Arizona woman on board was killed in the crash.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024

Wrong-Way Driver Who Killed 5 On I-80 Gets 98-110 Years, And Dad’s Forgiveness

The wrong-way driver high on meth who triggered a chain-reaction crash on I-80 last year that killed five young people got 98-110 years in prison Tuesday. He also got forgiveness from the father of two young women he killed.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024

Woman Killed In Plane Crash Near Meeteetse That Also Sparked Fire

The Park County coroner has confirmed one person died, a woman, in a plane crash near Meeteetse, Wyoming, on Sunday. The crash also sparked a fire.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 01, 2024

One Person Dead, 2 Arrested After Shooting Near Fort Bridger Rendezvous

A Saturday evening shooting at a home near the Fort Bridger historic site left one person dead and two arrested. The Uinta County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim late Sunday as Jeremy Jacques, 48.

September 01, 2024

Still frames from a video showing a pair of men, identified as Nevada residents, vandalizing a 140 million-year-old rock formation at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Men Charged With Destroying Ancient Rock Formation Will Likely Get Slap On The Wrist

Although two Nevada men face up to 10 years in prison for allegedly pushing gigantic 140 million-year-old rocks over a cliff at Lake Mead, law enforcement experts say they won’t do any time. They’ll likely get a slap on the wrist, they say.

Mark HeinzAugust 31, 2024

A 15-year-old Casper boy reportedly said "I hope I killed one" after allegedly shooting five times into a home in the 1100 block of North Durbin Street in Casper, Wyoming.

‘I Hope I Killed One,’ Says Casper Teen Accused Of Shooting 5 Times Into Home

A 15-year-old Casper boy accused of shooting five times into a mobile home reportedly said afterward, “I hope I killed one.” His preliminary hearing was waived Thursday, clearing the way for a felony prosecution.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 30, 2024

Joseph Beecher was arrested at a Cheyenne motel on Feb. 3, 2022, after kidnapping a woman from Michael Bloomberg's ranch in Colorado, then driving 350 miles to Cheyenne. He was captured by a SWAT team at the Stage Coach Motel.

Man Who Took Woman From Bloomberg Ranch, Held Her Hostage At Cheyenne Motel, Convicted

A Colorado man intent on killing media mogul Michael Bloomberg, but instead kidnapped a woman, was convicted Wednesday. He was caught holding her hostage in a Cheyenne motel.

Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024

Casper Man Admits Sex Contact With A Child And Making Child Porn

A 25-year-old Casper admits he had sexual contact with a child, as well as making and possessing child porn. Christopher Schmidt made the admission Friday while pleading guilty to seven felony charges.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 30, 2024

Jordan Jackson, left, died after he was sold fentanyl-laced drugs by Anthony Fuentes, right. Fuentes was given 15-20 years in prison for manslaughter in Jackson's death.

Wyoming Man Gets 15-20 Years In State’s First Fentanyl Overdose Conviction

A Wyoming man was given 15-20 years in prison Thursday for selling the fentanyl-laced drugs that killed a Cody man last year. It’s Wyoming’s first such conviction.

Jen KocherAugust 30, 2024

Terri Lesley, former Campbell County Public Library director

Fired Gillette Librarian Wants To Use Texas Ruling For LGBTQ Discrimination Suit

A Texas court ruling could impact the lawsuit of a former Wyoming librarian fired for refusing to remove books. A Thursday motion from the former Gillette library director says the Texas ruling opens the door for an LGBTQ discrimination claim.

Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024

The trailhead for the Pacific Creek Trail in the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Judge Rejects Self-Defense Claim Of Woman Who Bear-Sprayed Visitor At Campsite

A Wyoming judge on Thursday rejected a tourist’s claim that bear-spraying an unwelcome visitor to her Bridger Teton National Forest campsite was self-defense. Her aggravated assault case can go forward to trial.

Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024

Welcome to Guernsey Platte County 8 29 24

Lawyer Who Won $127K For Cheyenne Police Break-In Now Suing Guernsey Cops

A former Guernsey man is suing two cops and the former police chief for tasing him during a warrant service. He’s represented by the same lawyer who just won a $127,000 settlement for a similar case involving a Cheyenne police break-in.

Clair McFarlandAugust 29, 2024

Dr. Eric Cubin, left, is suing Gov. Mark Gordon for reinstatement to the Wyoming State Board of Medicine.

Casper Doctor Sues Gordon For Forcing Him Off State Board Of Medicine

Dr. Eric Cubin sued Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday for being forced off the Wyoming State Board of Medicine. Cubin says he was forced to resign after publicly supporting a law banning transgender treatments for children and wants his board seat back.

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

An array of large shipping containers holding materials to build a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody are staged at the site.

Judge Gives Final Go-Ahead For Controversial 101-Foot-Tall Cody LDS Temple

The drama and legal wrangling over a controversial 101-foot-tall LDS temple in Cody, Wyoming, appears to be over — at least for now. A judge has ruled against a temple opposition group, clearing the way for construction to begin.

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

Three members of The Nelons gospel quartet were killed in a July 2024 plane crash in northeast Wyoming.

Pilot Declared Emergency Before Plane Crash That Killed Gospel Group

The pilot declared an emergency before it crashed in northeast Wyoming in late July, killing all seven on board, according to a Wednesday NTSB report. Among those killed were three members of the Gospel Hall of Fame group The Nelons.

Clair McFarlandAugust 29, 2024

Wyoming Suspect Gives Up Cocaine And Fentanyl Hidden In Buttocks

A Gillette man saved himself a felony charge Tuesday night when he gave up the cocaine and fentanyl he had hidden in his buttocks. Even more common are suspects claiming they’re not wearing their own pants.

Greg JohnsonAugust 28, 2024

Huge plumes of smoke rise from the grasslands near Gillette in Campbell County.

People Keep Calling Local 911 Lines To Report Wildfires Already Being Fought

With local agencies stretched thin fighting large wildfires in northeast Wyoming, they say a large number of 911 calls stretch them more. In many cases, people are reporting smoke from fires already being fought.

Clair McFarlandAugust 28, 2024

Police and emergency responders are positioned on Lexington Avenue in Gillette on Aug. 24, 2024, in response to a standoff-style situation.

Gillette Man Barricades Self In Room After Asking Mom, “Do You Want To Die?”

A Gillette man was in court Monday after creating a standoff-style scene in a Gillette neighborhood over the weekend. He allegedly beat his mother, threatened her with a knife and asked her, “do you want to die?”

Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024

Joshua Hayden-Ali, 43, aka "Wisdom," is known around Cheyenne for throwing "hexes" at people, threatening them with a staff and making death threats. He now faces a felony charge for allegedly tearing up a local election center.

Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man” Accused Of Tearing Up Election Center

Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man” stands 6-foot-4, throws “hexes” at people, threatens them with a staff and spews death threats. He’s accused of tearing up an election center Aug. 6, and his case was elevated Friday to felony-level court.

Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024

Off-Duty Casper Cop Shot At Deputies During Alcohol-Fueled Standoff

Off-duty Casper Police Officer Michael Hughes was drinking heavily when he shot at deputies during a 17-hour standoff that ended Friday. He was in court Monday and remains in the Natrona County Jail on $500,000 bond.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 27, 2024

Riverton Police Officer Faces Felony For Receiving Illegal Steroids

A Riverton police officer accused of receiving illegal steroids by mail was served with a felony charge Monday. Logan Alley allegedly told investigators “maybe not the extent” when asked if he knew the drugs were illegal.

Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024

A dark mass of smoke rises from the Flat Rock Fire west of Gillette in Campbell County.

Progress Made On Wildfires That Have Burned 460,000 Acres In Wyoming, Montana

Rain helped crews make progress on two of Wyoming’s five major wildfires Monday, though a third that saw rain didn't benefit much from it. The fires have burned nearly 460,000 acres in Wyoming and southern Montana but showed little growth Monday.

Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024

Private-sector construction crews have brought their own machines to the fire perimeters in Campbell County, amid tensions about the county fire department’s approach to the blazes.

Critics Claim Wyoming Fire Department “Didn’t Lift A Finger” To Stop Wildfires

Some heavy equipment operators in northeast Wyoming claim the Campell County Fire Department “didn’t lift a finger” to help them stop a pair of large wildfires. Others, however, say that claim is baseless and the CCFD is saving their land.

Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024

A variety of delta-8 THC products at Black Market Vape & Smoke in Cheyenne in this file photo.

Judge Tosses Lawsuit To Halt Wyoming’s New THC Laws, Wyoming Sellers To Appeal

A judge dismissed their lawsuit challenging a new Wyoming law restricting the amount of THC legal for sale in Wyoming. But state hemp and THC sellers are taking their case to the federal appeals court.

Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024

Wyoming To Pay $127,500 For Cops’ Illegal Entry, Takedown Of Cheyenne Man

Wyoming is paying $127,500 to a Cheyenne man who was arrested after police entered his home illegally to arrest him four years ago. The Friday settlement ends a lawsuit against three former Cheyenne police officers.

Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024

Off-Duty Casper Police Officer Faces 6 Felonies From Armed Standoff

An off-duty Casper Police Department officer faces six felony charges following an armed 17-hour standoff that ended Friday. On Monday, CPD Chief Keith McPheeters said the incident has “reverberated throughout our entire department.”

Dale KillingbeckAugust 26, 2024

Crews worked to save the historic Poker Jim Fire Lookout tower in Custer National Forest, Montana, from the Remington Fire. "Flames burned under and past the station but rendered no notable damage to the structure," the BLM reports.

Remington Fire Now At 200,000 Acres, But Wildfire East Of Gillette Has Priority

The Remington Fire that started in Wyoming and sprinted into Montana has grown to about 200,000 acres Monday and is 5% contained. But because of nearby residential and ranch neighborhoods, a 53,000-acre blaze west of Gillette has priority.

Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024

Renee Yeargain of Torrington, Wyoming, disappeared Aug. 9, 2004.

It’s Been 20 Years Since Renee Yeargain Disappeared From A Wyoming Rest Stop

It’s been two decades since Renee Yeargain fled her Torrington, Wyoming, home and disappeared at a highway rest stop. She’s still missing, but family and friends won’t give up investigating what happened to her.

Jen KocherAugust 25, 2024

Riverton Fire Department Disavows Former Member After Sex Assault Claims

The Riverton Volunteer Fire Department has disavowed a retired firefighter accused of sexually attacking women. The agency says Charlie Lawrence retired in 2020 and no longer has a connection with the department.

Clair McFarlandAugust 25, 2024

Urgent Search On For Missing Laramie Man With Dementia

The family of Donnie Smith is urgently searching for him. He was last seen Wednesday, is 79 and suffering from dementia.

Jen KocherAugust 24, 2024

Ranchers and construction workers are helping build fire lines around the huge House Draw Fire in Johnson County.

Construction Crews, Ranchers With Weed Sprayers Battle Huge Wyoming Fires

With aggressive wildfires having already burned 250,000 acres across northern Wyoming, it’s all hands on deck. In addition to firefighters, construction crews with bulldozers and ranchers with weed sprayers are also on the fire lines.

Clair McFarland & Jackie DorothyAugust 23, 2024

An apartment building was evacuated while Casper police negotiated with a suspect barricaded in one of the apartments Friday.

16-Hour Standoff At Casper Apartment Ends With Nobody Hurt

A standoff with a subject barricaded in a Casper apartment since about 11:30 p.m. Thursday is over. The standoff ended "peacefully" Friday afternoon after about 16 hours.

Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024

The Remington Fire in Sheridan County, like others in northern Wyoming, continues to grow and tax firefighting resources.

Wildfires Have Ravaged More Than 250,000 Acres Across Northern Wyoming

Friday update: Wildfires raging across northern Wyoming have burned more than 250,000 acres. No deaths or injuries have been reported, but agencies have had to call in firefighting machines and personnel from many other regions.

Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024

Brief: Police Suspect Shooting-Suicide At Lander Apartment Complex

Police in Lander, Wyoming, are investigating a person who shot another then shot his- or herself Friday morning. An investigation continues, and police say there’s no threat to the community.

Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024

Riverton Man Accused Of Offering Women Rides, Then Attacking Them

A Riverton man faces up to 35 years in prison for allegedly offering women rides, then sexually attacking them. He case rose to felony-level court Tuesday.

Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024

The Remington Fire is burning in northern Sheridan County near the Montana border.

With Wildfires Burning All Around, Sheridan County Fights Its Own 10,000-Acre Blaze

With wildfires burning more than 200,000 acres nearby, firefighting resources are thin in northern Wyoming. Sheridan County is pressing on fighting its own 10,000-acre blaze near the Montana state line.

Clair McFarlandAugust 22, 2024

Jaime Cronin encountered the Barber Fire as she drove home to Casper from Greeley, Colorado, on Wednesday evening. She snuck through Interstate 25 just before authorities closed it from Douglas to Casper.

Much Of Northern Wyoming Is On Fire, But Converse County Is OK For Now

Lightning-caused fires are devouring huge swaths of northern Wyoming, but to the south, Converse County got a lucky break when a Wednesday-evening rainstorm helped stifle its large fire.

Clair McFarlandAugust 22, 2024

Huge plumes of smoke from the House Creek Fire as it burns past the home of Ashley Malcom near Buffalo, Wyoming. Malcom said the fire moved fast, but thankfully missed her property.

Northern Wyoming Wildfire Explodes To Nearly 200,000 Acres, Others Also Burning

A wildfire burning out of control in northern Wyoming east of Buffalo has exploded and is pushing 200,000 acres. Ranchers are scrambling to help fight that and other wildfires in the area to save their homes and animals.

Clair McFarland & Jen KocherAugust 22, 2024

The Horse Draw Fire in Johnson County flared up Wednesday, forcing a closure of Interstate 90 and evacuations. In this still shot from a short video posted by YouTube user @bec4337, huge plumes of smoke are ahead as cars are stranded on a closed I-90.

Northern Wyoming Wildfire Spreads To 5,000-Plus Acres, Forces Evacuations

A wildfire spread to more than 5,000 acres Wednesday, forcing about 10 Johnson County families to evacuate. It’s also shut down I-90 between Buffalo and Gillette.

Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024

Six times in the past four months, an arrangement of dead animals has been left at the intersetion of South Greeley Highway and East Nation Road in Cheyenne.

“We Don’t Get It”: Someone Keeps Arranging Dead Animals At Cheyenne Intersection

Six times in the past four months, someone has arranged dead animals at Cheyenne intersection. The carcasses are all intact and seem to be purposely left. “It’s certainly bizarre,” an Animal Control officer says. “We don’t get it either.”

Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024

Most discussion about the plans for Hot Springs State Park have turned around what's happening to the Star Plunge, but the plan's scope is much larger than any one amenity.

Star Plunge Operator Claims Wyoming Agency Cheated It Out Of Lease Deal

The Thermopolis company that’s operated the Star Plunge hot springs for nearly 50 years is suing over losing its contract. It claims Wyoming State Parks cheated it in favor of a new concessionaire.

Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024

A tanker hauling jet fuel crashed on Interstate 80 near Wamsutter early Wednesday morning, spilling about 1,500 gallons of fuel and shutting down the interstate for several hours.

Tanker Truck Rolls, Spills 1,500 Gallons Of Jet Fuel On Interstate 80

A tanker truck crashed into an occupied and parked car on I-80 overnight Tuesday, rolled and spilled about 1,500 gallons of jet fuel. Wamsutter fire plugged the leaks to prevent the rest of the tanker's 10,000 gallons from gushing out.

Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024

Honeycomb Buttes in Wyoming's Red Desert.

Wyoming May Help Utah Sue For Control Of Its Federal Land

Gov. Mark Gordon said Wyoming is studying ways to support Utah in its quest to gain control of federal land in that state. Utah filed a U.S. Supreme Court case Tuesday aimed toward gaining control of 18 million acres of its federal lands.

Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024

Brief: Texas Man Pleads Not Guilty To Taking Photos Up Girl’s Shorts At Carnival

A Texas man caught allegedly taking photos up the shorts of a young girl at the Teton County Carnival has pleaded not guilty.

Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024

Turns Out The Cops Were Already Tracking Wyoming Man’s Alleged VW Meth Bug

State police were already tracking a purple Volkswagen Bug that prompted a traffic stop when it broke down in a cloud of diesel smoke in Chugwater, Wyoming, suspected of bringing meth from Colorado.

Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024

Roberto Velazquez Mayorga, left, and Agustin Johnathan Camargo

Man Suspected Of Sex Trafficking Teen Also Accused Of Sneaking Drugs Into Jail

A New Mexico man stopped in Wyoming is suspected of sex trafficking a teen girl. He’s also accused of sneaking fentanyl into the Uinta County Jail. His case rose to felony-level court Friday.

Clair McFarlandAugust 19, 2024

Zachary DeMoss has a long road to recovery ahead of him after he was found surviving on creek water in a sparse Idaho region Friday. DeMoss’ motorcycle collided with a tree after he swerved to miss a deer Aug. 11, his friend told Cowboy State Daily

Montana Motorcyclist Missing For 5 Days Swerved To Miss A Deer

A Montana motorcyclist who was missing for five days and survived by drinking creek water is recovering in a Missoula hospital. Friends say he crashed into a tree when he swerved to miss a deer on the road.

Clair McFarlandAugust 19, 2024

Larry Marvin Morris, a 24-year-old college student from Oklahoma, disappeared somewhere between Riverton and Yellowstone National Park on April 24, 1974. It remains the state agency's oldest unsolved missing person case.

After 50 Years, Wyoming’s Oldest Missing Person Case May Never Be Solved

It’s the case that still haunts the former Fremont County coroner 50 years later — what happened to Larry Morris? He disappeared in 1974 and may never be found now that the men suspected of killing him have died.

Jen KocherAugust 18, 2024

Zachary DeMoss, 24, of Victor, Idaho, was traveling with his friends Devlin Zarn and Aly Phan on his black Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 motorcycle on Aug. 11, 2024, when he vanished.

Missing Montana Motorcyclist Found Alive In Idaho Surviving On Creek Water

Zachary DeMoss of Montana vanished without a trace Sunday during a Western states motorcycle trip with his buddies. After an intense five-day search, he was found Friday surviving on creek water.

Clair McFarlandAugust 16, 2024

Man Arrested In Crash That “Catastrophically Dismembered” 2 On Motorcycle

A man has been arrested more than a year after the truck he was allegedly driving plowed into a motorcycle and “catastrophically dismembered” two people in 2023. He was returned to Wyoming on Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandAugust 16, 2024

Campbell County Jimmy Emerson via Flickr 8 16 24

6-Year-Old Alive Dangling From Seat Belt After Alcohol/Marijuana-Fueled Rollover Near Gillette

A 6-year-old boy was found alive and dangling from a seat belt after the car he was in rolled multiple times. A Gillette woman was charged Wednesday in the alcohol- and marijuana-fueled rollover in northeast Wyoming.

Clair McFarlandAugust 16, 2024

Search Scaling Back For Montana Motorcyclist Who Vanished On Road Trip In Idaho

Five days after he vanished on an Idaho highway during a road trip with buddies, the search for a missing motorcyclist is being scaled back. Despite an intense search covering nearly 100 miles of highway and riverbank, there’s been no sign of him.

Clair McFarlandAugust 16, 2024

From left, Raul Martin Lopez, Eduardo Martin Sales and Edgar Jimenez Hernandez

Feds May Deport Three Guatemalans Caught With 170 Pounds Of Pot In Wyoming

Three Guatemalans were reportedly caught hauling 170 pounds of marijuana through Wyoming and face felony charges. At the same time, federal authorities are considering deporting them.

Clair McFarlandAugust 15, 2024

Casper Man With 27,000 Child Porn Images Faces Felony Charge

A Casper man allegedly found with 27,000 images of child pornography and 143,000 of "child erotica" faces a single felony charge. He had his first court appearance Wednesday, where a judge set a $100,000 bond.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 15, 2024

An RV on its way to Jackson, Wyoming, rolled over on Teton Pass on Wednesay, Aug. 14, 2024, killing on person and injuring four others inside.

One Killed, Four Hurt When RV Rolls Off Teton Pass

Brake failure may have caused an RV rollover on Teton Pass on Wednesday that killed a Nevada woman and injured four. They were on their way to Jackson when the vehicle rolled and burst apart, making the RV look like it had exploded.

Clair McFarlandAugust 15, 2024

Goshen County On Lookout For Man Accused Of Beating Woman’s Face With Gun

The Goshen County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a man accused of brutally beating his girlfriend. He allegedly pistol-whipped her in the face to the point of possibly disfiguring her.

Clair McFarlandAugust 15, 2024

Wind River Indian Reservation sign 5 20 24

Brief: No Arrests Made After Shooting On Wyoming Reservation

Someone was shot on Wyoming’s Wind River Indian Reservation on Wednesday afternoon. The FBI isn’t releasing much information on the shooting, but confirmed no one has been arrested.

Clair McFarlandAugust 14, 2024

The Pacific Creek Campground in the Bridger Teton National Forest of Wyoming.

Tourists Who Bear-Sprayed, Shot At Camp Intruder Claim Self-Defense

A couple from South Dakota charged with bear-spraying and shooting at a woman near their Wyoming campsite say they acted in self-defense. But prosecutors say the couple was looking for a fight with the woman, who was just looking for her hat.

Clair McFarlandAugust 14, 2024

Three Laramie Men Accused Of Duct-Taping Woman, Then Cutting And Beating Her

Three Laramie men are accused of duct-taping a woman’s mouth, hands and ankles, then cutting her with a knife, beating and threatening her. They allegedly did it because she was “disrespecting” them.

Clair McFarlandAugust 14, 2024

Montana Motorcyclist Vanishes On Road Trip With Buddies In Idaho

Idaho authorities are treating the disappearance of a motorcyclist from Montana as a missing persons case after he disappeared on Sunday. His friends did spot his bike but when they went back to that location after he didn't show up, it was gone.

Clair McFarlandAugust 13, 2024

An allegedly drunk man is accused of stealing a Yellowstone Park Service Station tow truck and taking it on a joyride around Old Faithful, before crashing through a fence. When caught, he pretended to be a U.S. marshal.

Man Accused Of Stealing Tow Truck And Going On Drunk Joyride Around Old Faithful

After a local store wouldn’t sell him beer, a drunk man allegedly stole a Yellowstone tow truck and drove it around Old Faithful. When caught, the man pretended to be a U.S. marshal and said he took the truck to get to his headquarters.

Clair McFarlandAugust 13, 2024

A crashed vehicle sits alongside the Bryan Stock Trail exit ramp on northbound Interstated 25 in Casper on Tuesday morning as Wyoming Highway Patrol investigate an early morning assault and police pursuit.

Brief: Casper High-Speed Chase After Gas Station Assault Puts 3 In Hospital

After three men assaulted someone at a Casper convenience store, they led police on a high-speed chase before crashing early Tuesday morning. Now they’re in a local hospital and could face serious criminal charges.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 13, 2024

Martha James, 76, recovers at UCHealth Pouder Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, Colorado, after she was found by police after being missing for three days.

Missing Rock Springs Woman With Dementia Found Alive In Colorado Parking Lot

A 76-year-old Rock Springs woman with dementia who had been missing for three days was found Monday evening in a Colorado parking lot. She’s safe, but was disoriented and thought she was in California.

Jen KocherAugust 13, 2024

A Riverton man fought with and shot a home intruder late Friday.

85-Year-Old Riverton Homeowner Fought Off, Shot Possibly “Irrational” Intruder

An 85-year-old Riverton, Wyoming, homeowner said he fought with a would-be intruder late Friday before shooting the other man. In a Monday interview, he says in hindsight, he believes “the guy was obviously irrational.”

Clair McFarlandAugust 12, 2024

Martha James of Rock Springs, Wyoming, has been missing since Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024. Her debit card was last used to buy gas in Colorado Springs on Aug. 12.

Urgent Multi-State Search On For Missing Wyoming Woman With Dementia

An urgent multi-state search is on for a missing 76-year-old Wyoming woman with Dementia. Martha James hasn’t been heard from since Saturday, but her debit card last bought gas Monday morning in Colorado Springs.

Jen KocherAugust 12, 2024

Wyoming Man Who Claimed Attic People Told Him To Slit Mom’s Throat Is Sane

A Gillette, Wyoming, man accused of slitting his mother’s throat to defend himself from distant attic people has been found sane enough to stand trial. He’ll be arraigned Thursday in Campbell County District Court.

Clair McFarlandAugust 12, 2024

Diana Clinton White came to Wyoming to make peace with Devils Tower, a place she'd always considered dark and evil after her sister's body was found on a nearby ranch 59 years ago.

60 Years Ago, Her Sister Was Kidnapped, Murdered And Left Near Devils Tower

Nearly 60 years after a 9-year-old girl was murdered and dumped near Devils Tower, her sister visited the spot last weekend. The killer has never been caught, but placing a marker for her sister has helped bury the past.

Jen KocherAugust 11, 2024

In Brief: Riverton Homeowner Shoots Apparent Burglar

Preliminary evidence suggests a Riverton, Wyoming, homeowner shot and wounded a man in his 20s late Friday night. The man was allegedly trying to burglarize a home near the town’s City Park.

Clair McFarlandAugust 10, 2024

Gillette Realtor Accused Of Stealing Commissions Wants Victim’s Phone Records

A Gillette real estate agent charged with stealing commissions now wants one of her victims’ phone records. The prosecutor calls the move “extremely concerning” and an invasion of the victim’s privacy.

Clair McFarlandAugust 09, 2024

Laramie City Council Candidate Says He Won’t Drop Out Despite Felony Charge

Laramie City Council candidate Paul Montoya says he won’t stop his campaign despite facing a felony charge. He’s accused of hacking into Wyoming Public Radio's radio transmitters and shutting off access to them while working for the station.

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

Texas Man Caught Taking Photos Up Shorts Of Young Girl At Jackson Carnival

A Texas man was caught taking photos with his phone angled up the shorts of a 7- or 8-year-old girl at the Teton County Carnival, allegedly. His case rose to felony-level court Wednesday and he's now out on bond.

Clair McFarlandAugust 09, 2024

Laramie City Council Candidate Accused Of Sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio

Laramie City Council candidate Paul Montoya is accused of hacking into and sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio when he worked there in 2022. Facing a felony charge, at least one council member says he should end his campaign.

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

Signal Mountain Lodge in Grand Teton National Park.

Grand Teton Worker Accused Of Choking Girlfriend Admits He Gets “Black-Out Drunk”

A Grand Teton National Park seasonal worker is accused of choking out his girlfriend during a fight over a broken necklace. The man allegedly admitted to the assault and says he routinely gets “black-out drunk” and forgets things.

Clair McFarlandAugust 08, 2024

Sheriff: “Divine Intervention” At Work For Wright Deputy Who Survived Shootout

The Campbell County Sheriff says a Wright, Wyoming, man shot at a deputy just as the deputy exited his car Sunday. The sheriff said Wednesday that the deputy’s body cam video shows “divine intervention” at work. "It’s just crazy,” he said about the footage.

Clair McFarlandAugust 08, 2024

Wyoming Man Tells Police He Wanted Girlfriend To Watch Him Kill Their Toddler Son

A Ranchester, Wyoming, man told police he wanted to make his girlfriend watch as he killed their toddler son and then kill her, according to a court affidavit. He also said he “just snapped” while the couple argued.

Clair McFarlandAugust 07, 2024

Firefighters battle a fire at the Remington Village Apartments in Gillette, Wyoming, on Aug. 6, 2024.

Lightning Sets Gillette Apartment Complex On Fire, Forces Evacuation Of 21 Units

A bolt of lightning energized the plumbing and wiring of a Gillette apartment complex Tuesday night, sparking multiple fires within the walls. Twenty-one units were evacuated and the building is now uninhabitable.

Clair McFarlandAugust 07, 2024

Sheridan Woman's Credit Score Tanks When Texas Man Allegedly Steals Her Identity

A Sheridan woman learned her identity had been stolen, but not before her credit score tanked by 100 points. A Texas man was in Sheridan County court Monday to face allegations he used the woman’s information to rent an apartment, then didn’t pay rent.

Clair McFarlandAugust 07, 2024

Police responded to a woman allegedly held captive by her husband on Chippewa Trial in Casper. She also reportedly had been tied up with zip ties and choked.

Casper Man Accused Of Using Handcuffs, Zip Ties To Keep Wife From Leaving

A 28-year-old Casper is accused of kidnapping his wife and keeping her from running away by handcuffing and zip-tying her. He also allegedly choked her to the point of knocking her out multiple times.

Dale KillingbeckAugust 06, 2024

Man Accused Of Smashing Up The Riverton Post Office To Show He’s A Gangster

A Wyoming man pleaded not guilty Friday to allegations he smashed up the Riverton Post Office to show he’s a gangster. Police allege he snorted a line of meth, then busted up the post office to scare off other gangsters.

Clair McFarlandAugust 06, 2024

Child Torturer Cries In Court As Judge Gives Him 9 Years In Prison

A Wyoming reservation man who brutally tortured his stepson cried in a federal courtroom Tuesday as a judge gave him 9 years in prison. The judge also blasted the Northern Arapaho DFS for failing his victim.

Clair McFarlandAugust 06, 2024

Up To 80 Years For Rawlins Man Who Tried To Gun Down Niece And Nephew

A 74-year-old Rawlins man who tried to gun down his adult niece and nephew will spend the next 40-80 years in prison. “I hope he rots in hell,” said the niece.

Clair McFarlandAugust 05, 2024

Campbell County Deputy Kills Suspect, Came “So Close To Dying” In Shootout

A Campbell County Sheriff’s Office deputy shot and killed a suspect Sunday night near Wright, Wyoming. The man fired a shotgun at the deputy first, the sheriff says, adding that the deputy came “so close to dying last night.”

Clair McFarlandAugust 05, 2024

A wrecker pulls a large Dodge Ram truck out of the outdoor pool at the National 9 motel in Gillette.

Woman Drives Truck Into Gillette Motel Pool, Arrested For DUI

A woman drove a large Ram pickup into the outdoor pool of the National 9 motel in Gillette on Friday evening. Nobody was hurt, but video of the aftermath shows a wrecker pulling the truck out and the woman’s DUI arrest.

Clair McFarlandAugust 05, 2024

Wyoming Man Gets 50 Years For Shooting At Trooper During 2023 Sturgis Rally

A 29-year-old Saratoga, Wyoming, man was sentenced to 50 years in prison last month after pleading guilty to shooting at a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper during the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Justin GeorgeAugust 04, 2024

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Minnesota's 'Draconian' Self-Defense Ruling Exposes Loophole In Wyoming Law

When the Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday crafted a groundbreaking rule against the self-defense concept of standing one’s ground, it highlighted a potential loophole in Wyoming’s own laws, says a firearms law expert.

Clair McFarlandAugust 03, 2024

The body of James Bitner of Black Hawk, Colorado, was found over the July 4 holiday at the Mirror Lake Recreation Area in Albany County, Wyoming.

Adopted Son Arrested In Murder Of Man Dumped At Mirror Lake In Snowy Range

The adopted adult son of a Colorado man whose body was wrapped in a tarp and dumped near Mirror Lake in the Snowy Range was charged Friday with second-degree murder. The deceased man was found with a bullet hole in the back of his skull.

Jen KocherAugust 02, 2024

The Uinta County Courthouse in Evanston, Wyoming.

Evanston Couple Suspects In Abuse Of 15-Day-Old Who Had Seizures, Brain Bleed

A couple living in Evanston, Wyoming, can’t be ruled out as potential abusers of their 15-day-old daughter. The baby suffered seizures and a brain bleed a doctor determined were not accidental in nature.

Clair McFarlandAugust 02, 2024

Wyoming Father Denied Daughter’s Counseling Records Scores Win With Supreme Court

The Wyoming Supreme Court on Thursday ruled in favor of a father who sued after being denied his 7-year-old daughter’s counseling records. The counselor claims that would violate medical privacy, but state law says parents can waive that.

Clair McFarlandAugust 01, 2024

Nash Quinn, 39, is believed to have disppaered on a bike ride in early July. Anyone with information is asked to call the Laramie Police Department at 307-721-2526.

With ‘More Questions Than Answers,’ Search For Missing UW Prof Ramps Down

Despite an intense search that covered nearly 70,000 acres, there has been no sign of Nash Quinn. The effort is ramping down with searchers left with “more questions than answers.”

Jen KocherAugust 01, 2024

About 28,000 acres have burned around the Hartville and Guernsey areas in easter Wyoming, leaving a lot of scorched earth behind.

Wyoming Firefighters Battle Flames, Heat And Rattlesnakes Near Guernsey

The Pleasant Valley Fire has consumed more than 28,000 acres in Goshen and Platte counties in eastern Wyoming. Firefighters are furiously battling flames, heat and rattlesnakes, but the fire remains 0% contained.

Pat MaioAugust 01, 2024

Wyoming Man Accused Of Beating Woman Pleads Not Guilty To Killing Another

An Ethete, Wyoming, man accused of murdering a woman while out on bond for beating another has pleaded not guilty. A federal judge Monday ordered he remain in jail this time.

Clair McFarlandAugust 01, 2024

A photo taken from U.S. Capitol Police body cam video shows a man, identified by the FBI as Douglas Harrington of Wyoming, assaulting an officer with a flagpole.

Wyoming Man Who Went After Police With Flagpole During Jan. 6 Riot Convicted

Douglas Harrington of Bedford, Wyoming, was convicted Wednesday for his role during the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol. He was found guilty of multiple charges, including assaulting law enforcement with a flagpole.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

Paul Sheehan and Teddy, the miniature poodle he's accused of stealing in Canada and taking to Riverton, Wyoming.

Man On The Run With Stolen Mini Poodle Caught With Meth In Wyoming

A Canadian man stole a mini poodle named Teddy, hopped the border and fled to Riverton, Wyoming, police documents say. That’s where police caught up to him for allegedly possessing meth.

Clair McFarlandJuly 31, 2024

Online Scammer Tries To Sell Casper Mountain Land Out From Under Owner

A sharp-eyed real estate agent saved a Casper Mountain landowner from a scammer trying to sell her land out from under her. It’s a growing problem that can cost landowners and unwitting buyers big money.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 31, 2024

Betsy Burnham, 25, and her boyfriend Dakota Gaughran, 32, are each charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangering.

Douglas Woman And Boyfriend Accused Of Brutal Roadside Beating Of Woman’s Mom

A woman from Douglas, Wyoming, and her boyfriend are accused of brutally beating the woman’s mom on the side of a road. The victim’s head was split to the bone. Her daughter’s case rose to felony-level court Monday.

Clair McFarlandJuly 31, 2024

Another Boy Claims He Was Abused At Wyoming Boys’ School

A fourth former resident at Wyoming Boys School claims he was abused, mistreated and tormented there. Three others suing the school over similar allegations want to add the fourth boy to their lawsuit, according to a Tuesday court filing.

Clair McFarlandJuly 31, 2024

This striking image shows a large wildfire advancing on the eastern Wyoming communities of Hartville and Guernsey. It was shared by Juliana Schile to the Wyoming through the Lens Facebook page.

‘It Was Armageddon’: Eastern Wyoming Community Evacuated By Wildfire

Hartville and a neighboring subdivision in eastern Wyoming were evacuated overnight Tuesday when a fast-moving wildfire ballooned to more than 25,000 acres. “It was Armageddon,” is how a local woman described watching the flames advance.

Pat MaioJuly 31, 2024

Brief: Man Accused Of Killing 2 at Cheyenne Coin Shop Pleads Not Guilty

The man arrested nine years after two people were gunned down during a robbery at a Cheyenne coin shop has pleaded not guilty. Douglas Smith, who faces two first-degree murder charges, made his plea Monday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

A bolt of lightning nearly cut this giant wind turbine blade in half. It's getting some notice, just a few hundred feet from the busy Interstate 80 corridor just west of Cheyenne.

Green River Man Charged For Pulling Gun On "Dumbass" Teen On His Lawn

A Green River man is facing up to 10 years in prison on claims he pointed a loaded 9 mm pistol at a teen who parked dirt bike on the grass in front of the man’s home. The man allegedly told police the boy was acting like a “dumbass.”

Clair McFarlandJuly 30, 2024

State Sen. Eric Barlow pitches in on the Beaver Creek fire outside of Gillette.

Wyoming Wildfires Burn Homes, Force Evacuations Around The State

A number of wildfires burning around Wyoming have burned some homes, forced evacuations and briefly closed the East Entrance to Yellowstone.

Jake NicholsJuly 30, 2024

California Transient Accused Of Attacking Wyoming Transients With Machete

A California transient is accused of attacking four Wyoming transients under a bridge in Green River with a machete. He claimed they were trying to drown him while they claim he just started swinging his machete at them for "no reason."

Clair McFarlandJuly 30, 2024

Helicopter pilot Mark Peterson and passenger Thomas Volz were killed at the EAA AirVenture on July 29, 2023, after a gyrocopter hit them mid-air.

Families Sue Nation’s Largest Air Show Over Deaths Caused By ‘Hot Dog’ Pilots

The families of two men killed in a 2023 mid-air collision during a reckless “hot dog” maneuver are suing the nation’s largest air show. AirVenture show has a history of ignoring the rules and allowing unsafe flying, the lawsuit claims.

Jen KocherJuly 30, 2024

Cody Bar Manager Accused Of Skimming Nearly $200K From Gaming Machines

A longtime manager of a Cody bar is accused of skimming nearly $200,000 from gaming machine profits over the past three years. She faces four counts of felony theft in Cody Circuit Court, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Clair McFarlandJuly 29, 2024

Friend Says Naked Man Passed Out In Stranger’s Home Usually “A Pretty Good Guy”

Upon returning to his home in Alpine, Wyoming, a man found his house wrecked and a naked stranger passed out there last month. The intruder had his case elevated to felony-level court last week, while a friend says he’s usually “a pretty good guy.”

Clair McFarlandJuly 29, 2024

Three members of the Gospel Hall of Fame group The Nelons were killed in a Wyoming plane crash Friday. They include, Jason Clark, left, Kelly Nelon Clark, second from right, and Amber Nelon. Not on the plane was Jason and Kelly’s daughter, Autumn Nelon Clark, second from left.

Bad Autopilot May Have Contributed To Wyoming Air Crash That Killed 7

The single-engine turboprop plane that crashed in northeast Wyoming on Friday, killing all 7 on board, indicated an “autopilot issue during flight,” the NTSB reports. That would be in line with that model aircraft, a crash investigator told Cowboy State Daily.

Clair McFarlandJuly 29, 2024

Wade Farrow, 36, is one of 20 male inmates at the Wyoming Medium Correctional Institution earning a bachelor’s degree through the University of Wyoming’s Pathways from Prison program.

For Some Wyoming Inmates, Prison Is Their Best Shot At Education

For some Wyoming inmates, being in prison is their first best shot at getting a real education and not repeating their crimes. Critics worry, however, it takes resources from other students.

Jen KocherJuly 28, 2024

Terri Smith went from being chief judge on the Wind River Tribal Court to serving time in federal prison for marketing pills. But then she got clean, came home to her children, and now she’s desperate to get her story out to others who struggle with addiction, to convince them there’s hope.

Former Wyoming Judge Busted For Drugs Now Spreads Recovery Story And Hope

Terri Smith was a respected Wyoming tribal judge before she was busted for dealing cocaine and helping to sell prescription drugs. Now she's working to help other addicts recover and find redemption through accountability and gratitude.

Clair McFarlandJuly 28, 2024

Lucas Fussner in a selfie with mountains, posted to his Facebook page this spring.

Not 'The Lucas I Knew': Family Of Yellowstone Shooter Shocked By July 4 Standoff

Authorities say Yellowstone concessionaire worker Lucas Fussner took a hostage and threatened to "shoot Jew-babies" before dying in a shootout with a park ranger July 4. Fussner's family says they're shocked and that wasn't the person they knew.

Clair McFarlandJuly 27, 2024

From L-R: Kelly Nelon Clark, Amber Kistler, Autumn Nelon Clark, Jason Clark.

Three Members Of Gospel Group The Nelons Killed In Wyoming Plane Crash

Three members from the gospel group The Nelons were killed in a plane crash on Friday afternoon in northeast Wyoming. At least seven passengers were onboard the plane. There were no survivors.

Jimmy Orr, Greg Johnson & Clair McFarlandJuly 27, 2024

This Pilatus PC-12/47E single-engine aircraft crashed just south of the Montana border in Campbell County, Wyoming, while on its way to Billings, Montana, on July 26, 2024.

'Super, Super Nice People': Plane Fueled Up In Nebraska Before Crashing In Wyoming

A single-engine aircraft that crashed in northeast Wyoming on Friday afternoon had fueled up in Nebraska. The manager of the airfield said they were regular customers and just "super, super nice people." There were no survivors.

Clair McFarland & Greg JohnsonJuly 26, 2024

New Trial For Rawlins Woman Who Crushed Sleeping Pills Into Kids’ Milk

The Wyoming Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered a new trial for a Rawlins woman who admitted crushing up prescription sleeping pills into her children’s milk. Because no one proved the kids were injured, the high court ruled it wasn’t necessarily abuse.

Clair McFarlandJuly 26, 2024

Police Dog Brings Down Suspected Bank Robber In Cheyenne

The Cheyenne Police Department credited one of their police dogs with apprehending a man suspected of robbing two banks in the city Thursday. Before his arrest, the suspect reportedly assaulted an officer by throwing a hammer at him.

Clair McFarlandJuly 26, 2024

Missoula County emergency response personnel were hunting for broken trees Thursday after a 109 mph windstorm wracked the region Wednesday night so that no trees fall on bystanders.

Montana Officials Warn Residents That Streams Might Be Electrified After Violent Windstorm

After a violent windstorm knocked down power lines into waterways in western Montana, officials are warning people to stay out of the water, which they fear are electrified.

Clair McFarlandJuly 25, 2024

In Brief: Body Found In Tarp At Mirror Lake ID’d As Colorado Homicide Victim

The body of a man found wrapped in a tarp and dumped at Mirror Lake in southern Wyoming has been identified. He’s a 56-year-old from Colorado, and the case is being investigated as a homicide, the Albany County sheriff said Thursday.

Jen KocherJuly 25, 2024

The Roosevelt Lodge in Yellowstone National Park.

In Brief: Yellowstone Contract Worker Who Threatened Mass Shooting Gets Probation

A worker for a Yellowstone contractor was sentenced to five years of probation Tuesday for threatening a “mass shooting” a day after another died in a shootout with park rangers.

Clair McFarlandJuly 25, 2024

In Brief: Lovell Woman Focus Of Urgent Search Found Safe In Montana

A 20-year-old Lovell woman who was the subject of an urgent search was found safe in Montana on Wednesday.

Jen KocherJuly 25, 2024

Wife Claims Husband Died From Gangrene After Doctors Found He Was Illegal Immigrant

Ociel Perez died of flesh-eating gangrene after being discharged from St. John's Health in Jackson, Wyoming, according to a lawsuit. His wife alleges doctors didn't treat him properly after finding he was an illegal immigrant.

Clair McFarlandJuly 25, 2024

Douglas Woman Accepts Plea Deal For 10 Years Prison For Killing Mother

Edwina "GiGi" Leman has admitted to abusing her 81-year-old mother, and didn't argue that the elderly woman's injuries led to her death. Leman has struck a plea deal stipulating between 10 and 20 years in prison.

Clair McFarlandJuly 24, 2024

Visiting University of Wyoming arts professor, Nash Quinn, 39, has not been seen or heard from since July 8 when he’s believed to have gone for a bike ride.

Search Underway for Missing University of Wyoming Professor

A massive ground search is underway for a University of Wyoming professor who has been missing for more than two weeks. Searchers believe he could be on his bicycle, which was missing from his apartment.

Jen KocherJuly 24, 2024

After Brother Opens Fire On Him, Meeteetse Man Gets Away In Shooter’s Truck

A Meeteetse, Wyoming, man made a harrowing getaway last week when his brother shot out his window with a handgun. He escaped by getting into the shooter’s truck and driving off.

Clair McFarlandJuly 23, 2024

Sheridan Man Accused Of Bludgeoning Mother To Death Not Sane Enough For Trial

A Sheridan man accused to bludgeoning is mother to death and hiding her body under gas-soaked blankets isn’t sane enough to stand trial. A Circuit Court judge has ordered an evaluation to see if he can ever be made competent to be prosecuted.

Clair McFarlandJuly 23, 2024

Missing Lovell Woman Last Seen On Foot, Without Cellphone Or Wallet

An urgent search is on for a 20-year-old Lovell, Wyoming, woman who’s been missing since Saturday night who officials fear may be in danger.

Jen KocherJuly 22, 2024

The Campbell County Courthouse was evacuated Tuesday after a report of a hazardous material was received.

Gillette Man Accused Of Stealing Thousands In Ex-Wife’s DraftKings Winnings

A Gillette man faces a felony theft charge after thousands of dollars his ex-wife won betting on DraftKings was accidentally deposited into his bank account. The man has denied taking the money, although evidence shows it was later moved into his savings account.

Clair McFarlandJuly 22, 2024

Thieves sometimes target parking lots at larger events looking for opportunities.

Most Wyoming Car Thefts Come Down To Leaving Them Unlocked, Keys In Them

Despite tech advances and a huge rise in video surveillance, a growing number Wyoming car thefts happen because they're left unlocked or with the keys inside. Multiple Cowboy State cities also report older vehicles are targeted more than newer.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 22, 2024

Cheyenne musician Chris Hoover plays his prized 1977 Gibson Les Paul guitar.

Thieves Steal Prized Gibson Les Paul Guitar After Tree Falls On Cheyenne House

A giant tree fell on Chris Hoover’s house and demolished it in April. But the real blow to his soul came last week when thieves broke into the condemned home and stole the musician’s prized 1977 Gibson Les Paul guitar.

Jake NicholsJuly 20, 2024

The lemonade stand in Mentock Park on Thursday, July 18, 2024. The kids were selling lemonade for two hours before being closed down.

Cody Cops Shut Down Kids’ Lemonade Stand In City Park

A group of kids set up a lemonade stand in Mentock Park in Cody on Thursday, but within a few hours, the stand and the kids were shut down for not having a permit after someone called the Cody Police Department.

Andrew RossiJuly 19, 2024

Yellowstone Contract Worker Charged With Attacking Parks Officer After Traffic Stop

A contract worker in Yellowstone National Park is facing a potential eight years in prison on claims she jumped onto a park ranger and punched him repeatedly when he tried to separate her from her boyfriend. She was indicted on a federal charge Thursday.

Clair McFarlandJuly 19, 2024

Gillette Woman Arrested After Roommate Found Dead Next To Safe Filled With Drugs

A Gillette woman was arrested for felony drug possession after police found her 60-year-old roommate dead next to an open safe with methamphetamines inside.

Clair McFarlandJuly 18, 2024

Casper Police Help Capture 14-Year-Old Denver Murder Suspect

Casper Police on Wednesday helped capture a 14-year-old male of Denver who went on the run after the July 10 killing of an adult male. Surveillance video and witness accounts helped identify Marquez as the suspect.

Clair McFarlandJuly 18, 2024

Volkswagen Bug Breaks Down So Alleged Drug Dealer Can't Finish Meth Run

A Gillette drug dealer couldn’t finish his methamphetamine run from Colorado last month because his Volkswagen bug slowed to a smoke-spewing crawl when he hit Chugwater, court documents say.

Clair McFarlandJuly 17, 2024

Big Piney Man Faces 260 Years In Prison For Possession, Delivery of Child Pornography

A Big Piney man who allegedly went by the display name of "wyonaked" in an internet chat room was caught up in a sting where he was arrested on 24 counts of possession and distribution of child pornography. He faces up to 264 years in prison.

Jen KocherJuly 17, 2024

Casper Millionaire's Son Loses Inheritance For Suing Co-Heirs

A Casper millionaire’s son lost his portion of a $4 million inheritance for suing co-beneficiaries of his father’s estate, the Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Tuesday.

Clair McFarlandJuly 17, 2024

The aftermath of a train wreck in which a semitruck containing two Wyoming men tried to clear a crossing ahead of a freight truck in Nebraska.

Wyoming Man Dead In Nebraska Semi Vs. Freight Train Crash

One Wyoming man died and one was injured Tuesday after a semi truck reportedly tried to beat a train to a temporary crossing on a curved Nebraska highway.

Clair McFarlandJuly 17, 2024

Rock Springs Woman Accused Of Stealing Ex's Gun While Texting Him About It

A Rock Springs woman accused of breaking into her ex-boyfriend’s home to steal a gun while sending him suspicious text messages about it faces up to 25 years in prison.

Clair McFarlandJuly 16, 2024

James Botkin, left, was allegedly caught sexually attacking a Texas couple's mare early Sunday morning in Evanston, Wyoming.

Evanston Horse Molester Gets Maximum Sentence For Bestiality

James Botkin on Monday accepted a plea agreement giving him the maximum sentence for bestiality after he was arrested for sexually violating a horse at the Uinta County fairgrounds. He was sentenced to a year in jail.

Clair McFarlandJuly 16, 2024

Man Arrested In Alleged Sexual Abuse Of Horse In Evanston

A Texas couple said they caught a man early Monday in a stall at the Uinta County fairgrounds violating their horse. The man has been charged with one count of bestiality and faces one year in jail, if convicted.

Clair McFarlandJuly 15, 2024

A Punch Over A Parking Dispute Kills Sheridan Hockey Coach

Sheridan hockey coach Patrick Mudd died over the weekend, after he was allegedly "sucker punched" in a parking lot outside of the Sheridan WYO rodeo. The hockey community laid their sticks outside his home in mourning.

Clair McFarlandJuly 15, 2024

Genealogist Megan McWilliams builds out a family tree using a DNA software tool.

Wyoming Twins On Mission To Unravel Deaths Of 'Motel Mike' And 'Pine Bluffs Pete'

Megan McWilliams and Ashley Kroner are twins and genealogists who investigate some of the region's coldest cold cases and missing people mysteries. The Wyoming women are now working to unravel the decades-old deaths of "Motel Mike" and "Pine Bluffs Pete."

Jen KocherJuly 14, 2024

A man was caught cutting through a chain-link fence at the New Hope Humane Society to steal this 4-month-old bulldog-mix puppy, named Zorro.

Drunk Worland Man Charged With Trying To Steal Puppy Out Of Shelter

A drunk Worland, Wyoming, man who wasn’t allowed to adopt a bulldog-mix puppy was caught allegedly cutting through a chain-link fence to steal the pup.

Clair McFarlandJuly 12, 2024

Gillette Teen Tops 155 MPH In Mustang While Running From Cops

A Gillette teen ran from cops at more than 155 mph Wednesday night, then hid in a field before he was arrested.

Jen KocherJuly 12, 2024

Wind River Indian Reservation sign 12 21 23

Wind River Reservation Man Accused Of Raping Runaway Girl

Accused of getting a 14-year-old runaway drunk, putting her in a chokehold and molesting her, a 32-year-old Crowheart, Wyoming, man faces a potential lifetime in prison.

Clair McFarlandJuly 12, 2024

Detective: Coin Shop Suspect, Neighborhood Not Searched After 2015 Double Murder

A Cheyenne police detective testified during a Friday hearing that the man now suspected of killing two men during a 2015 robbery wasn’t searched at the time. He also testified the neighborhood around The Coin Shop also wasn’t searched.

Leo WolfsonJuly 12, 2024

Motorcycle Gang Rivalry Boils Over At Wyoming Truck Stop

When members of the Mongols Motorcycle Club came across a man wearing a Hell’s Angels jacket at a Wamsutter truck stop, the rivalry between the gangs boiled over. Now seven Mongols face felony charges for robbery and intimidation.

Clair McFarlandJuly 12, 2024

The Rock Springs Police Department says missing children scams like this one posted in a local Facebook group are a growing concern.

Scam Uses Fake Lost Wyoming Kid To Prey On Sympathies Of Potential Victims

A sad Facebook post in southwest Wyoming asks people to help reunite a lost little boy with his mom. Problem is, it’s a made-up sob story to exploit people with good hearts, says the Rock Springs Police Department.

Jen KocherJuly 12, 2024

Laura Lane went missing somewhere near Grand Teton National Park on June 2, 2024.

Authorities Investigating What Caused Idaho Woman’s Car To Drive Off 60-Foot Cliff

Many questions remain as officials investigate the death of an Idaho woman in Grand Teton National Park. Among those is what caused her car to drive off a 60-foot cliff and plunge into a river?

Jen KocherJuly 11, 2024

The aftermath of a large truck towing a gooseneck trailer that crashed through the old post office building in Marbleton, Wyoming.

'Luckiest Kid In Sublette County' Demolishes Old Post Office With 5th-Wheel

The old post office in Marbleton, Wyoming, was demolished when a 17-year-old took a corner too fast and launched a truck and trailer through it. The owner of the building said the teen is the “luckiest kid in Sublette County” for walking away alive.

Clair McFarlandJuly 11, 2024

Rock Springs Hostage Fought Husband For Gun While Taking A Beating

A woman held hostage at gunpoint by her estranged husband fought him for the weapon while taking a beating, court documents say. The man eventually gave up, but not before terrorizing his wife and repeatedly telling her they both would die.

Clair McFarlandJuly 11, 2024

In Brief: Man Charged With Fighting Arrest, Breaking Leg Of Casper Police Officer

A 41-year-old Evansville man who wanted to use drugs one more time before entering treatment is accused of breaking the leg of a Casper police officer while fighting his arrest.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 10, 2024

In Brief: Gillette 18-Year-Old Burned When Bucket Of Gas Spills In Car

A Gillette 18-year-old who had a bucket of gasoline in a car was burned early Wednesday morning. After gas had sloshed out of the bucket inside the car, a teen lit it on fire thinking it would burn off the spilled gas but not damage the car.

Clair McFarlandJuly 10, 2024

In Brief: Sorry, Thieves, $14 Million Treasure Stashed In Smoot Home Is Gone

Cowboy State Daily reported Tuesday about a massive $14 million heist of gold, silver and cash from a Smoot, Wyoming, home. Now the local sheriff has a message for other potential thieves: Sorry, there’s no more treasure stashed there.

Clair McFarlandJuly 10, 2024

Laramie Woman Gets 7-10 Years In Prison For Molesting Foster Teen

A Laramie woman was sentenced to 7-10 years in prison Monday after accepting a plea agreement for molesting a 14-year-old foster teen. The boy was living in a youth home where she worked, and her deal includes a reduction of sentence if she gets a GED.

Clair McFarlandJuly 10, 2024

Xanterra Worker Arrested For Mass Shooting Threat Day After Fatal Yellowstone Shootout

A Xanterra worker was arrested Monday for allegedly threatening a mass shooting a day after a fatal shootout park rangers had with another Xanterra employee. He told rangers he just “lost my cool.”

Clair McFarlandJuly 10, 2024

Smoot, Wyoming, is a tiny community in Wyoming's Star Valley just south of Afton.

Man Accused Of Stealing $14 Million In Gold And Silver From Father’s Wyoming Home

A Las Vegas man is accused of stealing $14 million in gold and silver from his father’s home in Smoot, Wyoming. He reportedly told investigators he didn’t steal the treasure out of greed, he was just keeping it safe.

Clair McFarlandJuly 10, 2024

In Brief: Body Found Wrapped In Tarp At Mirror Lake Investigated As Homicide

An elderly man found wrapped in tarp near Medicine Bow Peak still has not been identified. It’s being investigated as a homicide, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office said on Tuesday.

Jen KocherJuly 09, 2024

Yellowstone Gunman Was Firing Semiautomatic Weapon Toward Dining Area

The Yellowstone contract employee killed during a Fourth of July shootout with rangers had been firing a semiautomatic weapon, authorities said Tuesday. He had been firing it toward a dining area when confronted by rangers.

Clair McFarlandJuly 09, 2024

Gillette Brothers Arrested For Domestic Assault On Same Night

Two Gillette brothers pleaded not guilty Monday to separate but related domestic assault charges. They were arrested within an hour of each other Sunday.

Jen KocherJuly 09, 2024

Dwight Brockman was one of two men killed in a 2015 robbery at The Coin Shop in Cheyenne. His brother, Paul, said the arrest of a suspect nine years later brings a sense of closure.

Brother Of 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Murder Victim Says Arrest Brings Waves Of Emotion

The brother of one of two men killed during the 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in Cheyenne says he’s gone through waves of emotion since an arrest was made two weeks ago. “I cried and cried and cried,” he said.

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

Laura Lane went missing near Grand Teton National Park on June 2, 2024. Her car was found in a river in the park Sunday, along with her body.

Missing Idaho Woman Found Dead In Car In Teton National Park River

An Idaho woman who disappeared June 2 while driving home from Buffalo, Wyoming, has been found dead in her car in a Teton National Park river. The car was found Sunday, and officials confirmed Tuesday Laura Lane was inside.

Jen KocherJuly 09, 2024

Rock Springs Man Arrested After Holding Person Hostage, Locking Children In Car

A Rock Springs man was arrested late Monday after allegedly holding someone hostage in his home and locking three kids in a car. Police say Cody Birdwell eventually surrendered and remains in jail on multiple charges.

Clair McFarlandJuly 09, 2024

Couple Charged With Bear-Spraying Woman Who Drove Through Camp

Accused of blasting a woman who drove through their campsite with bear spray and firing a 9 mm pistol toward her car in the Bridger Teton National Forest, a South Dakota couple now faces up to 10 years in prison.

Clair McFarlandJuly 09, 2024

Yellowstone law enforcement respond to an armed man on July 4, 2024, which ended in a shootout that killed the suspect and wounded a ranger.

Former Top Park Service Officials Say Yellowstone Rangers Likely Saved Many Lives

Former top National Park Service officials told Cowboy State Daily on Monday that the response of Yellowstone Park rangers to a gunman threatening a mass shooting on July 4 likely saved many lives.

Clair McFarlandJuly 08, 2024

In Brief: Casper Man Shot During Fourth Of July Fight Over Fireworks

A man was shot and taken to a Casper hospital on the Fourth of July during a fight over personal fireworks. An argument between a small group of people and the man who was shot erupted at the basketball courts at a local park.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 08, 2024

Samson Fussner and yellowstone swat 7 7 24

Yellowstone Shooter Took Woman Hostage, Held Her At Gunpoint: Scanner Recording

The Yellowstone contract worker who injured a park ranger and was killed in a shootout on July 4 held a female hostage at gunpoint prior to his death, according to a recording of a "be-on-the lookout" notice aired on the Park County dispatch system hours before.

Clair McFarlandJuly 08, 2024

Mirror Lake near the base of Medicine Bow Peak.

In Brief: Mirror Lake Reopened After Body Discovered July 4

The popular Mirror Lake Picnic and Fishing Site near the base of Medicine Bow Peak in Wyoming’s Snowy Range reopened Saturday morning after the discovery of a body in the area Thursday.

Jen KocherJuly 06, 2024

Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, 28, of Florida has been identified as the man killed in a shootout with Yellowstone National Park rangers on the Fourth of July. He was a worker for park contractor Xanterra Travel Collection.

Yellowstone Shooter Identified, Was 28-Year-Old Contract Worker From Florida

The man who died in a shootout with Yellowstone National Park rangers on the Fourth of July was 28-year-old Samson Fussner, the Park County Coroner told Cowboy State Daily on Saturday morning.

Clair McFarlandJuly 06, 2024

No Bond For Man Accused Of Gunning Down 2 Men In 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Robbery

The man accused of killing two men in the 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne will stay in jail without bond. Douglas Smith had his initial hearing in court on Friday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 05, 2024

Casper Man Accused Of Bragging About Sex With Young Kids Pleads Not Guilty

A 25-year-old Casper man who allegedly bragged about sex acts with young kids pleaded not guilty Friday. Christopher Schmidt also is accused of inviting other men to participate in the abuse.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 05, 2024

Karen Smith is recovering after she was stabbed in the back last month. The family is now raising money for her medical bills, while her teen son has been charged as an adult for allegedly stabbing her.

Wyoming Woman Raffling Off Son's Pigs After He Allegedly Stabbed Her

A Campbell County woman whose teenage son allegedly stabbed her in the back while she slept is raffling off his pigs to pay down her medical costs. Winners will receive half a hog each; butchered, cut and wrapped.

Clair McFarlandJuly 04, 2024

Yellowstone law enforcement on Thursday, July 4, 2024

One Person Dead After Fourth Of July Shootout In Yellowstone

One person was killed in a shootout with a Yellowstone National Park ranger Thursday morning, after an exchange of gunfire in the Canyon Village. The ranger was injured and is now receiving medical treatment.

Clair McFarlandJuly 04, 2024

More Felonies For Alleged Natrona County Drug Trafficker Named ‘Tree Killer’

A man known around Casper by the nickname “Tree Killer” who’s suspected of being a major trafficker of fentanyl and methamphetamine in central Wyoming faces three new felony charges.

Andrew RossiJuly 03, 2024

A pilot suffered only minor injuries when a small plane crashed Wednesday after shutting off the plane’s fuel. The aircraft flipped while making an emergency landing in Albany County.

In Brief: Pilot Accidentally Turns Off Fuel Switch, Flips Plane In Albany County

A pilot accidentally turned off the fuel switch mid-flight on his plane on Wednesday morning and crash landed in rural Albany County. He suffered minor injuries.

Mark HeinzJuly 03, 2024

Douglas Smith has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the 2015 killing of two people at The Coin Shop in Cheyenne.

Suspect In 2015 Double Murder At Cheyenne Coin Shop Back In Wyoming

The man accused of killing two people in 2015 at The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne is back in Wyoming. Douglas Smith has been extradited from California and will have his first court hearing Friday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

A Biden administration rule requiring states allow transgender students to use the bathrooms and locker rooms of their choice has been blocked by a federal judge.

Judge Rules Wyoming Doesn't Have To Follow Biden's Trans Bathroom Rules

A federal judge Tuesday said Wyoming doesn't have to follow a new federal rule allowing males identifying as females in school bathrooms. The judge ruled that Title IX doesn't trump free speech, privacy and safety rights of girls.

Clair McFarlandJuly 03, 2024

A hemp crop west of Powell was grown during the first season for the crop in Wyoming in 2021.

Hemp Businesses Sue Gordon, State Of Wyoming Over New Cannabis Law

Ten Wyoming hemp businesses and one individual hemp seller on Monday asked a federal judge to declare Wyoming’s new law against synthetic cannabis variants unlawful by Congress’ standards, and to block it going forward.

Clair McFarlandJuly 03, 2024

Wyoming’s First Black Female Prison Warden Loses Hostile Workplace Lawsuit

A federal jury ruled Tuesday that the Wyoming Department of Corrections did not create an unlawfully hostile work environment for the state’s first Black female prison warden, who claimed corruption within her ranks.

Clair McFarlandJuly 02, 2024

A 14-year-old Casper girl was seriously hurt Monday evening while riding a skateboard when she collided with an SUV.

‘Life-Threatening’ Injuries For 14-Year-Old Casper Skateboarder Who Hit SUV

A 14-year-old Casper girl on a skateboard suffered “life-threatening” injuries when she collided with an SUV on Monday evening.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 02, 2024

Campbell County Courthouse in Gillette, Wyoming.

Gillette Foursome Accused Of Pistol-Whipping Men In Retaliation For Kidnapping

After a Gillette woman told her friends an ex-boyfriend had kidnapped her Saturday, they allegedly barged into a shop, held two men at gunpoint and pistol-whipped them.

Clair McFarlandJuly 02, 2024

Evanston Man Accused Of Rampage With Hatchet, Shovel And Machete

An Evanston man accused of terrorizing his estranged wife with a hatchet, shovel and machete will face felony charges, a judge decided Friday. He could get up to 41 years in prison if convicted.

Clair McFarlandJuly 02, 2024

Cody Police Bust Meth Lab When Woman Reports Boyfriend

Cody police say they busted a local meth lab after a woman reported her boyfriend for cooking the drug in their home. He’s in court Wednesday, and could face up to 45 years in prison if convicted.

Clair McFarlandJuly 01, 2024

Former President Donald Trump during a Save America rally in Casper, Wyoming, on May 28, 2022.

Wyoming Split On Landmark Ruling That Trump Can’t Be Prosecuted For Official Acts

Wyoming legal opinions are split on Monday’s landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling that former President Donald Trump is immune from prosecution for official acts in office.

Clair McFarlandJuly 01, 2024

Chance Englehart with his newborn child. There's still little information about what happened to the Moorcroft, Wyoming, man when he vanished July 6, 2019.

New Leads In The Disappearance Of Moorcroft, Wyoming, Man Missing Now For 5 Years

It’s been nearly five years since Chance Englebert vanished during a holiday visit to see his in-laws in Nebraska. As his family gets ready to mark the unhappy anniversary, new leads have emerged that may help shed light on the Moorcroft, Wyoming, man’s disappearance.

Jen KocherJune 30, 2024

For 37 Years, Lander Therapist Did What Nobody Else Would: Treat Sex Offenders

For 37 years, Wyoming therapist Gary Curtis counseled a segment of the population nearly nobody else would — sex offenders.

Jen KocherJune 30, 2024

Cheyenne “Voodoo Man” Arrested, But Business Owners Worried He'll Be Out Soon

Cheyenne business owners were relieved to hear that a towering man who wields a staff and pronounces voodoo curses and death threats toward them was arrested Thursday, but they suspect he won’t be in jail long.

Clair McFarlandJune 29, 2024

Man Accused Of Hitting Brother In Head With Axe At Riverton City Park

A St. Stephens man has been charged with attacking his brother with an axe at Riverton City Park. He was allegedly caught on video swinging the axe at his brother and hitting him in the head. His preliminary hearing is Tuesday.

Clair McFarlandJune 28, 2024

Oil Field Worker Charged With Child Porn Says He’s ‘Disgusted’ With Himself

A Casper-area oil field worker who faces eight felony charges for having and distributing child porn allegedly told investigators that fantasies about sex acts with children are like “an itch in my head” and that he’s “disgusted” with himself.

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Laramie County School District 1 administration building at 2810 House Ave. in Cheyenne.

Cheyenne Teachers Now Required To Notify Parents If Kids Change Their Names

Teachers in Cheyenne will now be required to notify parents when their kids want to go by other names or nicknames, including transgender names. The district took its policy a step further than state law.

Clair McFarlandJune 27, 2024

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, during a June 26, 2024, news conference on Capitol Hill.

Hageman Blasts Supreme Court For Allowing Government To Censor Social Media

Harriet Hageman on Thursday blasted a Wednesday U.S. Supreme Court ruling that lifts a ban on government-induced censorship of social media. “The courts have failed to remedy this blatant censorship; the ultimate solution lies with Congress,” she said.

Clair McFarlandJune 27, 2024

Riverton police and investigators at the scene in February 2024 where the dead body of a man was found near a local church.

Manslaughter Charge Filed In Fatal Beating Of Riverton Man Outside Church

A local man was charged with manslaughter Wednesday in the February beating death of a Riverton man outside a church. The suspect allegedly told police he “might have escalated the assault too far.”

Clair McFarlandJune 27, 2024

Guns, Credit Cards Stolen From Wyoming Rancher Accused Of Starving Animals

A Shawnee, Wyoming, rancher accused of starving five confined animals alleged had guns, credit cards and other things stolen from his home, according to Converse County District Court records.

Clair McFarlandJune 27, 2024

Douglas Man Accused Of Killing 14-Year-Old In Drunken Head-On Crash

A Douglas, Wyoming, man faces charges of vehicular homicide and DUI after allegedly causing a Sunday head-on crash that killed a 14-year-old and seriously hurt a woman and a 6-year-old child, the Wyoming Highway Patrol reported Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandJune 26, 2024

Bobby maher justice center and memorial 4 18 24

Casper Teen Accused Of Holding Bobby Maher Down During Stabbing Pleads Not Guilty

The Casper 15-year-old accused of holding 14-year-old Bobby Maher down while another stabbed him to death pleaded not guilty Wednesday.

Dale KillingbeckJune 26, 2024

Cheyenne police announced Tuesday, June 25, 2024, they've made an arrest in the 2015 double murder at The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne, a crime that rocked the community.

Suspect In 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Double Murder Was First To Call 911

The man who Cheyenne Police arrested on Tuesday for the 2015 double homicide at The Coin Shop was the one who initially called 911 after the crime had been committed. An affidavit shows the suspect tripped himself up talking about his alleged alibi.

Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2024

Arrest Made In 2015 Double Murder At Cheyenne Coin Shop

An arrest was made Tuesday in the unsolved 2015 double-murder at The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne. Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins said the crime "was a wound on our community’s soul.”

Leo WolfsonJune 25, 2024

Park County Man Swinging Baseball Bat Shot In Leg During Road Rage Showdown

A Park County man was shot in the leg on Sunday in a wild road rage incident. The individual allegedly chased someone down and then got out of his vehicle swinging a baseball bat when he was shot.

Andrew RossiJune 25, 2024

Cheyenne Teen Avoids Attempted First-Degree Murder Charge With Plea Deal

A Cheyenne teen will avoid prosecution on an attempted first-degree murder charge after a deal was struck having him plead guilty to aggravated assault on Monday.

Leo WolfsonJune 24, 2024

Arrest Warrant Issued For Torrington Woman In Major Drug Trafficking Scheme

An arrest warrant issued Friday seeks a 25-year-old Torrington woman for her alleged involvement in a statewide fentanyl and meth trafficking ring that was busted in March.

Dale KillingbeckJune 24, 2024

Rozet Man Accused Of Stealing 168 UPS Packages Says He Did It For ‘The Rush’

A man who worked as an overnight cleaner at a Gillette UPS facility allegedly told investigators he stole at least 168 packages for “the rush” he gets by taking things. He waived a Monday hearing and elevated to felony-level court.

Greg JohnsonJune 24, 2024

News

Vandalism Forces Cheyenne Frontier Days To Close Grounds To Public

Utah Man Says He Was Hired To Cash $13K In Fake Checks In Wyoming

Wyoming, Colorado DUI Patrols Will Be Watching Highway 287 For Border War

Multiple Law Agencies Investigate Homemade Explosives Found At Home Near Cody

3 UW Volleyball Players Part Of Bombshell Lawsuit Over Trans Player

Sheridan Man Accused Of Punching And Killing Hockey Coach Claims Self-Defense

“I Hope I Killed One”: Casper Teen Accused Of Shooting Into Homes Pleads Not Guilty

Torrington Man Accused Of Throwing Ex’s Guns And Computers In Canal

Riverton School Board Candidate Pleads Guilty To Molesting Child For Months

Companies Say Explosions That Hurt Wyoming Oil Field Workers Were Their Own Fault

FBI Asks For Help To Find Crow Tribe 13-Year-Old Girl Missing More Than A Month

Man Gutted Dead Uncle's Wyoming Oil And Gas Company To Start His Own

Off-Duty Casper Cop Who Shot At Deputies During Standoff To Face 6 Felonies

Casper Teen Pleads Guilty To Second-Degree Murder For Shooting Ex-Girlfriend

3D Imaging Helps Recreate Face Of John Doe Found In Cheyenne A Year Ago

Campbell County Deputy Who Killed Shooter Acted In Self-Defense

Prosecutor Disputes Wyoming Hunter's Claim Friend's Shooting Death Was Accident

Casper Teen Accused Of Stabbing Girl Said The Victim “Walked Into The Blade”

Juvenile On The Run Hit And Killed Trying To Cross I-25 Near Bar Nunn

Gillette Woman Charged With Domestic Abuse Claims Boyfriend Punched Himself

Wyoming Woman Says She Was Too Patient With Husband Accused Of Shooting At Her

Casper Girl, 17, Thought Machete-Like Knife Was Fake, Then She Was Stabbed

Sheridan Man Accused Of Shooting At Wife, Threatening Man Who Drove Her Home

Nationally Notorious Serial Graffiti Vandal “Ciga” Targets Cody

Wyoming Duck Hunter Says Fatal Shooting Was Accident, Not Crime

Girl Kicked SUV, So Casper Teen Allegedly Stabbed Her With Machete-Style Knife

'Wish They Would Stop': False Threats Prompt Lockdowns At Schools Across Wyoming

Jackson Hotel Worker Missing Since September Found Safe

Truck Plows Into Rock Springs Gas Station, Burying Woman In Debris

Gillette Mother's 'Weird Feeling' Leads To Arrest Of Peeper, Police Say

Montana Man Confesses To Brutal Murder Of Camper, Used Screwdriver And Ax

Fort Washakie Man Who Killed Man In Front Of Carload Of Witnesses Gets 16 Years

3 Found Dead In Carbon Monoxide Leak In Riverton Home, Faulty Water Heater Suspected

Casper Girl, 17, Charged With Stabbing Another Teen On Halloween

Evansville Man Pleads Not Guilty To Almost Killing 1-Year-Old

Family Of Missing Wyoming Hunter Overjoyed At His Rescue

Sheridan Woman Who Drove Car Into River Says She Passed Out

Teen Pleads Not Guilty to Pistol-Whipping Casper Man, Shooting At Another

Riverton School Board Candidate Accused Of Molesting Child, Drops Out Of Race

Cowboy Roper Accused Of Stealing $3,800 From Jackson Hole Rodeo

Judge: Sheridan School Board Violated Man's Speech Rights During Mask Debate

Police Say Casper Man Was Drunk When He Plowed Into Car With Teens

Gillette Police Claim Woman Chuckled While Trying To Frame Man For Assaulting Her

Wheatland Men Accused Of Stealing Valuable Boulders From Albany County Ruby Mine

Quick-Acting Staffers Save Moorcroft Student Who Overdosed At Volleyball Game

Supreme Court Rules Child Molester Can't Bash Child Victim At Trial

Freedom Caucus Wants Lawsuit Over Misleading Political Mailers Thrown Out

Guilty Plea For Yellowstone Concession Worker Who Attacked Park Ranger

Two Accused Of Running Illegal Online Gambling Operations In Gillette And Casper

Kidnapped Teen Girl Saved After Wyoming High-Speed Chase Is Second In 5 Days

Brief: Fremont County Coroner Seeks Someone To Claim Body Of Washington Man

Cheyenne PD Wants Dismissal Of Racism Claim From Red Light Traffic Stop

Former Riverton Cop Busted With Mail-Order Steroids Gets Deal

Thermopolis FFA Alumni Treasurer Accused Of Embezzling More Than $15,000

Casper Man Who Killed Alleged Child Molester Sues Over Toe Amputated In Prison

Douglas Woman Gets 14-23 Years In Prison For Abusing, Killing Mother

In Brief: Appeals Court Upholds Order To Allow 195-Foot Wapiti Cell Tower

Woman Who Killed Ex By Running Him Down In SUV In Rock Springs Gets 45 To Life

Thermopolis Man Sues Cops, Deputies Over Break-In And Tasing

Casper Juvenile Male In Serious Condition After Early Morning Shooting At Party

Wyoming Troopers Save Kidnapped Teen Girl From Sex Offender And “Wanted Predator”

Wyoming Man Helps Rescue Girl Abused By Dad And Trafficked For Sex By Mom

Douglas Man Guilty Of Killing Cousin After Drinking Binge, Jury Finds

Wyoming Man Trying To Get Federal Machine Gun Ban Overturned

Shoshoni Woman Pleads Guilty To Shooting Naked Boyfriend, But Not His Harley

Wyoming Man Caught In Child Sex Sting Video Pleads Not Guilty

205-Acre Wind River Fire Started In Trash Barrel And Burned One Home

50-Person Search For Body Parts Near Cheyenne Got “All That We Could Find”

Montana Man’s Death First Thought To Be Grizzly Mauling, Now Suspected Murder

Riverton Man Charged With Beating Friend To Death Pleads Not Guilty

New Charge For Laramie Man Accused Of Duct-Taping And Torturing Woman

Jackson Hotel Worker Called In Sick A Month Ago, Hasn't Been Heard From Since

Grass Fire Threatens Wind River Homes, Planes Respond

Man Charged With Bludgeoning Mother To Death May Be Sane Now

Rock Springs Police Officers Literally Dodge Bullets Fired From House

Wyoming Wants Supreme Court To Let States Decide Bans On Child Sex Changes

Special Prosecutor To Review Thermopolis Officer-Involved Shooting

Search For Missing Hiker Stopped After U.S. Forest Service Denies Helicopter Drop