Kim Peach‚ a 67-year-old ex-ranger with 35 seasons of experience at Glacier National Park‚ is speaking out about an incident involving Senate candidate Tim Sheehy. The event‚ which took place roughly 9 years ago has become a point of contention in Sheehys campaign.
Peach recounts responding to a call about a gunshot wound at Logan Pass parking lot. He later met Sheehy at a hospital‚ where the ex-Navy SEAL explained he had accidentally shot himself while unloading gear. Peach issued a $525 ticket for discharging a weapon in the park.
I remember Sheehy obviously being embarrassed by the situation but at the same time thankful that it wasnt worse
However Sheehy now claims he lied to Peach to cover up a potential friendly fire incident from his time in Afghanistan. This explanation doesnt sit well with Peach‚ who insists he saw evidence of a recently fired weapon.
The rangers decision to speak publicly comes after facing harassment when his identity was revealed following an anonymous interview. Peach‚ a Democrat‚ maintains his motivation is truth-seeking rather than partisan politics.
Sheehys campaign dismisses Peach as a partisan activist‚ pointing to his criticism of former president Donald Trump on social media. They emphasize Sheehys military service and commitment to veterans.
Peach – who started his career at the park in 1986 and became a law enforcement ranger in the late 90s – stands by his account. He questions Sheehys varying explanations and expresses concern about the candidates potential future as a U.S. Senator
“I have no personal vendetta against Tim Sheehy. But when a person makes a statement thats not true somebody has to call them on it“ Peach stated‚ urging the candidate to clarify his statements as other politicians have done in similar situations