URGENT UPDATE: A Colorado woman was tragically mauled to death by a mountain lion on New Year’s Day, marking a devastating first fatal attack since 1999, according to wildlife officials. The incident unfolded around 12:15 p.m. on the Crosier Mountain Trail in unincorporated Larimer County, shocking the local community and raising urgent safety concerns.
Witnesses, a group of hikers, stumbled upon the scene and reported seeing a mountain lion near a woman lying on the ground from approximately 100 yards away. As they approached, they frightened the lion away by throwing rocks, but despite their efforts to aid the victim, they found no pulse. Firefighters quickly arrived on the scene and shot the mountain lion, which fled but was later tracked and euthanized. Authorities also discovered a second mountain lion nearby, which was subsequently euthanized as a precaution.
According to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), wildlife involved in human attacks must be euthanized to ensure public safety. It is still unclear whether one or both of the animals were responsible for the fatal attack. The woman, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, is believed to have been hiking alone when the lion approached her. Signs on her body confirmed a mountain lion attack, as stated by CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose.
Local authorities, including the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and police from nearby Estes Park, are actively investigating the incident. Volunteer firefighters and a biologist conducting a deer survey by helicopter have also joined the search efforts, with houndsmen from the community providing tracking support.
Following the attack, CPW pathologists will perform necropsies on the euthanized animals to check for abnormalities and diseases, including rabies. The Crosier Mountain Trail, located near the Wyoming border and close to Rocky Mountain National Park, is known for its remoteness, which often results in hikers losing cell service.
Mountain lions, also referred to as pumas or cougars, are solitary animals primarily found in 15 western states, including Colorado. Although attacks on humans are rare, with only 28 reported incidents since 1990, the last fatality occurring in 1999, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant.
“Those enjoying the outdoors along the Front Range and in Larimer County should be prepared for wildlife encounters,” warned CPW. “Mountain lions are more visible in winter months as they follow deer and elk to lower elevations. If you spot a lion, make noise to scare it off, hold objects overhead to appear larger, and back away slowly.”
Additionally, pet owners are advised to keep their animals on leashes and avoid interactions with wildlife.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that exist in secluded hiking areas. Authorities will release further details regarding the victim’s identity and the investigation as they become available. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
