An adult woman died in a rare suspected mountain lion attack on Thursday while hiking on the Crosier Mountain Trail in unincorporated Larimer County, Colorado, officials said
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, hikers reported seeing a mountain lion near a person lying on the ground about 100 yards away around 12.15 pm. The hikers scared the animal off by throwing rocks and then rushed to help the woman.
One of the witnesses, a physician, checked for vital signs but did not find a pulse, officials said.
Investigation underway into suspected attack
Authorities are investigating the death as a suspected mountain lion attack. While there were indications consistent with such an incident, officials said the exact cause of death will be confirmed by the Larimer County Coroner after examination.
“It is believed the woman was hiking alone,” a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife said, adding that the area is remote and heavily wooded.
Mountain lions located and euthanised
Following the incident, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers, Larimer County Sheriff’s deputies, Estes Park police and Glen Haven Area Volunteer Firefighters launched an extensive search.
One mountain lion was located at the scene but fled after officers fired shots. It was later tracked and euthanised. A second mountain lion was found nearby and also euthanised, in line with wildlife safety protocols.
Officials said it remains unclear whether one or multiple animals were involved. Necropsies will be conducted to check for abnormalities or diseases such as rabies, and the animals will be tested for human DNA.
Rare fatal encounters
Colorado Parks and Wildlife noted that mountain lion attacks on humans are rare in the state. Since 1990, 28 attacks have been recorded, with the last fatal incident occurring in 1999.
Mountain lions are more visible in winter as they follow deer and elk to lower elevations, particularly along Colorado’s Front Range.
Safety advisory for hikers
Wildlife officials advised hikers to expect encounters with animals in Larimer County and surrounding areas. In the event of a mountain lion encounter, people are urged to make noise, appear larger by holding objects overhead, maintain eye contact and back away slowly without turning their backs.