Colorado sheriff's deputies launched a massive search for a man wanted for stabbing a park ranger — only to learn the reported attack was an "elaborate hoax," officials said Thursday

A Colorado park ranger faces felony charges after investigators say he fabricated a stabbing attack that triggered a massive manhunt and community lockdowns.

In fact, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office said Thursday, the ranger had injured himself and orchestrated an “elaborate hoax” claiming someone had attacked him and fled.