DENVER -- A heavily armed 20-year-old man was found dead at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Colorado over the weekend, apparently having taken his own life to avoid carrying out an intended attack, authorities reported on Monday.

The man's body was discovered by a maintenance crew in a bathroom at the amusement park on Saturday morning, moments before it was set to open to the public for the day. Officials believe the individual gained entry to the park while it was closed. Equipped with an AR-style rifle, a semi-automatic handgun, and both real and fake explosive devices, he was also found wearing body armor and tactical clothing resembling that of a SWAT team member, according to law enforcement.

Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario revealed that a chilling message reading, "I am not a killer, I just want to get into the caves," was scrawled on a wall inside the women's bathroom where the man was discovered. Alongside the message, authorities found a handgun and explosive devices, some of which were genuine while others were replicas. The AR rifle was located on a nearby counter, accompanied by a duty belt holding multiple ammunition magazines.

While investigating the man's vehicle, authorities discovered several improvised explosive devices. However, after conducting a thorough search, no additional explosives were found within the park premises.

"The level of preparation, the abundance of weapons and explosives gives a clear indication that this individual likely intended to use them against the community. Thankfully, he chose not to," Sheriff Vallario stated.

Considering the timing of the incident during fall hunting season, when the park tends to be crowded with visitors enjoying the Colorado mountains' vibrant autumn colors, the potential impact on the surrounding community could have been devastating. Additionally, given the park's remote location that can only be accessed by a gondola, emergency response and reaching medical facilities could have proven extremely challenging.

Law enforcement officials noted that the weapons found on the suspect were ghost guns, lacking serial numbers making them untraceable. Furthermore, the suspect's attire was adorned with patches and emblems resembling those typically associated with law enforcement personnel.

Some of the explosive devices determined to be fakes, resembling hand grenades, though others were authentic, Sheriff Vallario confirmed. However, there is presently no evidence suggesting that additional explosives were placed elsewhere within the amusement park.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, situated atop a mountain overlooking the Colorado River in western Colorado, boasts various attractions including cave tours, an alpine coaster, and a daring pendulum swing ride perched on a cliff's edge above the river canyon. The incident has left both park visitors and local residents shocked and thankful that the potential tragedy was averted.

Law enforcement continues to investigate the incident to determine the motives and background of the deceased individual, while the park's management has cooperated fully with authorities throughout the process.