Assault of DNR ranger on Belle Isle raises questions

DETROIT (WJBK) - A violent confrontation with a Belle Isle park visitor and ranger has many asking if the state park workers should carry weapons.

The Michigan State Employees Association union that represents the DNR, says park rangers should be armed and should wear bullet proof vests.

"Our rangers are not armed with side arms," said Jacob Brown, unit supervisor, DNR. "But they do have pepper spray and a baton."

Michigan State Police say a female DNR park ranger was physically assaulted Saturday night by a man who wanted to use the restroom. Investigators say the park ranger wouldn't let him because she was closing the restrooms for the night.

"From time to time we deal with unruly people," Brown said. "But it is not the norm. Most people generally want to be nice so this is not common."

DNR conservation officers and Michigan State Troopers on Belle Isle are armed.

FOX 2 asked the question would be arming park rangers prevent incidents like the restroom assault?

Don Styles has been visiting Belle Isle for decades. He's not convinced that park rangers should carry guns

"This is a very safe environment but I guess it's up to them," he said. "If they feel comfortable maybe they should be armed."