This is  a complete tragedy: Ranger Fatally Shot at Mt Rainier.
1/2/12 update: Law enforcement did a good job protecting the visitors and campers, although I still would be concerned about visitors  out there not necessarily in concentrated areas or numbers. Despite the 100+ LEO's out there they were still at severe risk. I don't there is much doubt they would be dead if they had run into the assailant.

As someone who regularly camps at Skate Creek (just outside Rainier National Park) it is a reminder of why I carry a firearm when out there.

Remember all the rhetoric about how the Rangers would keep you safe? Best intentions aside, when someone is bent on hurting others they will find a way, regardless of laws.

Officials were so concerned about the safety of the Park Visitors that they actually would not let them leave because they were afraid for their safety while LEAVING.

What about the folks in the campground, the people hiking, the people outside of the Park's boundary?

That could have been me, or my friends and family.  That's why we camp armed.