Woman Killed in Suspected Mountain Lion Attack in Colorado
UPDATE: A woman has tragically died in a suspected mountain lion attack on the Crosier Mountain trail in Larimer County, Colorado, just after 12:15 p.m. on Thursday. Witnesses reported seeing a mountain lion near the victim, who was found lying on the ground approximately 100 yards away.
Authorities from Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed that hikers attempted to scare off the mountain lion by throwing rocks. Despite their efforts, one witness, a physician, checked for vital signs and reported, “did not find a pulse,” according to spokesperson Kara Van Hoose.
The victim’s identity is pending release by the Larimer County Coroner, while officials have begun an investigation into the attack. “There were signs that this was consistent with a mountain lion attack, but we can’t say for sure,” Van Hoose stated during a press briefing.
In a swift response, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, along with the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and local police, initiated a thorough search for the mountain lion involved. They were assisted by a biologist conducting aerial surveys and trained houndsmen to track the scent of the animal.
Authorities located one mountain lion at the scene, but it fled when officers attempted to intervene. It was subsequently tracked down and euthanized, as is standard protocol for animals involved in attacks on humans. A second mountain lion was found shortly after and was also euthanized. Van Hoose explained, “It is unknown if one or multiple animals were involved in the suspected attack.”
As part of the investigation, pathologists will conduct necropsies on the mountain lions to check for abnormalities, neurological diseases, and human DNA evidence. If no evidence of human DNA is found, the search for the mountain lion responsible will continue.
Mountain lion attacks on humans in Colorado are rare, with only 28 attacks reported since 1990, and the last fatal incident occurring in 1999. “This area is remote and heavily wooded, making it a common habitat for mountain lions and other wildlife,” Van Hoose noted.
Officials urge hikers to remain vigilant, as mountain lion sightings in the region can occur frequently, particularly as these animals follow deer and elk to lower elevations in the winter months. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has advised that anyone encountering a mountain lion should make noise to scare it away, appear larger by holding objects overhead, and back away slowly.
This tragic incident highlights the potential dangers of wildlife encounters in Colorado and serves as a stark reminder for hikers to exercise caution in areas known for mountain lion activity. Further updates will follow as authorities continue their investigation.
