Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating a suspected fatal mountain lion attack on the Crosier Mountain Trail in unincorporated Larimer County. At around 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1, hikers reported seeing a mountain lion near an adult woman lying unresponsive on the trail. When they approached, they scared off the animal by throwing rocks and found the woman without a pulse.
Response and Search
Wildlife officers, Larimer County Sheriff deputies, Estes Park police, and local firefighters responded and launched an extensive search for any mountain lions in the area. A CPW biologist assisting by air helped locate one lion at the scene, which was shot and tracked before being euthanized.
A second lion found nearby was also euthanized. It is not yet known whether one or both were involved in the incident. Per CPW policy, any wildlife suspected of attacking a person must be euthanized.
Necropsies will check for human DNA and diseases like rabies or avian influenza. The Larimer County Coroner will release the victim’s name and the official cause of death.
Rarity and Safety
Mountain lion attacks on people are considered very rare in Colorado. Officials say 28 attacks have been reported since 1990, with the last confirmed fatality in 1999. Mountain lions are more visible in winter as they follow deer and elk into lower elevations.
CPW advises hikers to make noise, hold objects overhead to appear larger, and back away slowly if they encounter a lion. Keep pets on leash and avoid interaction with wildlife.
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