Homicide investigation leads to temporary closure on Bridger-Teton National Forest

Posted 7/17/17

The Teton County Wyoming Sheriff's Office, with assistance from the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Teton County Wyoming Emergency Management and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are conducting an investigati

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Homicide investigation leads to temporary closure on Bridger-Teton National Forest

Posted

July 17, 2017 –The Teton County Wyoming Sheriff's Office, with assistance from the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Teton County Wyoming Emergency Management and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are conducting an investigation regarding a triple homicide that occurred early June in Caldwell, Idaho. The Teton County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating with the Canyon County Idaho Sheriff’s Office.

An abandoned vehicle registered to one of the deceased homicide victims was located on the Pacific Creek campground on the Bridger-Teton National Forest near Moran, Wyoming. It is believed the vehicle may have been in the area since mid-June.

All of the agencies are working in cooperation to patrol the area in search of the suspect, including the use of cadaver and live-search dogs. The suspect, Gerald M. Bullinger, is believed to be armed and possibly dangerous. 

The Bridger-Teton National Forest has issued a temporary area closure to facilitate law enforcement operations and for public safety. Effective immediately, Pacific Creek campground is closed. The Lava Creek, Box Creek and Clear creek Trails and all of the area around Enos Lake in the Teton Wilderness Area are closed for the duration of this search. The road closure on the Pacific Creek Road begins at the Forest boundary.

Visitors wishing to access the Teton Wilderness Area can still travel to Hawk's Rest, and utilize the North and South Forks of the Buffalo River, and the Turpin Meadow Trailhead. Additionally the Sheffield Creek to Arizona Creek loop remains open. "There are many destination areas still open in the Teton Wilderness," said Blackrock District Ranger Todd Stiles. "There are ample opportunities for extended

trips which are outside of the closure area and still provide for the Wilderness experience," he said. Visitors are encouraged to contact the Blackrock Ranger Station at 307-543-3900 for specific access point information as the situation could change depending on the search.

All visitors and local residents are reminded to maintain situational awareness and always be alert to your surroundings. Be deliberate with your security and protection activities. If you see something, say something. Anyone with information that may be related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Teton County Sheriff's Office by calling or texting 911, or calling 307.733.2331.