UPDATE: A woman has died in a rare mountain lion attack in northern Colorado, marking an alarming incident for local hikers. Authorities discovered the victim on a hiking trail near Crosier Mountain in Larimer County around 12:15 p.m. today, prompting an immediate investigation by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
Witnesses reported seeing a mountain lion near the victim, who was found unresponsive on the ground. Hikers attempted to drive the animal away by throwing rocks, but unfortunately, the woman was already without a pulse. This tragic event highlights the risks associated with wildlife encounters in the area, as CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose stated, “Mountain lion attacks in Colorado are considered to be very rare.” In fact, since 1990, only 28 attacks have been reported, with the last fatal encounter occurring in 1999.
Following the incident, wildlife officers shot at the mountain lion on the scene and subsequently tracked and euthanized it. Another lion in the vicinity was also euthanized for safety reasons. CPW confirmed that animals involved in attacks on humans are required to be euthanized, and the remains will be tested for human DNA to identify their involvement in the attack. The lions will also be examined for potential neurological diseases, including rabies.
The Larimer County coroner is expected to release the victim’s identity and the cause of death shortly. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of wildlife awareness in outdoor activities, particularly in areas known for mountain lion populations. Colorado is home to an estimated 3,800 to 4,000 mountain lions, with their numbers steadily increasing since they were classified as a big game species in 1965.
CPW advises hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions when encountering mountain lions: make noise, hold objects overhead to appear larger, and slowly back away. With the growing lion population, this tragic event underscores the need for public awareness and safety measures in Colorado’s wilderness.
As this story develops, more details are expected to emerge regarding the victim and the circumstances surrounding this rare and fatal incident. Stay tuned for updates as authorities continue their investigation.
