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Colorado Hiker Found Dead in Suspected Mountain Lion Attack

Officials await necropsy with DNA testing to confirm whether the euthanized cats were responsible.

Overview

  • Hikers on the Crosier Mountain Trail reported a mountain lion near a woman lying on the ground around 12:15 p.m. and a physician in the group found no pulse.
  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife led a ground and aerial search with local agencies and euthanized two mountain lions near the scene under public safety policy.
  • Investigators have not determined whether one or both animals were involved in the incident and will continue searching if tests do not show human DNA.
  • The Larimer County Coroner will identify the victim and issue the official cause of death following an autopsy.
  • If confirmed, this would be Colorado’s first fatal mountain lion attack since 1999, with CPW noting 28 reported attacks on people since 1990 in an area where winter conditions increase encounters.