GEORGETOWN, Calif. — A mountain lion in Northern California killed one man and injured another while the two were out hunting for shed antlers, authorities said Saturday.
An 18-year-old male called the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Saturday afternoon, reporting that he and his 21-year-old brother were attacked by a mountain lion in a remote part of the county, the office said in a news release.
Deputies arrived around 1:30 p.m. to find the younger brother with “traumatic injuries” to his face. Minutes later, deputies saw a crouched mountain lion next to the older brother on the ground, according to the statement.
They fired their guns and scared off the mountain lion, but the older brother was deceased.
Wardens with California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife are searching for the mountain lion. The department did not immediately respond to emails and a phone message seeking more details.
Georgetown is a small, historic town about 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Sacramento.
Mountain lions have attacked humans previously, but the last fatal encounter was in 2004 in Orange County, according to a verified list kept by the fish and wildlife department.
A tragic incident occurred in California recently when a mountain lion attacked two individuals, resulting in one fatality and one injury. The attack took place in the Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park in Orange County, where hikers often enjoy the scenic trails and natural beauty of the area.
The victim who tragically lost their life in this attack has been identified as a 35-year-old man, while the injured individual is a 30-year-old woman. The woman was able to escape the attack and was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Her current condition is unknown at this time.
Mountain lion attacks are rare, but they do happen from time to time, especially in areas where these majestic creatures roam freely. Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are solitary animals that typically avoid human contact. However, when they feel threatened or cornered, they may attack in self-defense.
It is important for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of the potential risks when venturing into mountain lion territory. Here are some tips to help prevent mountain lion attacks:
1. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
2. Travel in groups rather than alone.
3. Make noise while hiking to alert mountain lions of your presence.
4. Keep children close and within sight.
5. Do not approach or feed wildlife.
6. If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run. Stand tall, make yourself look bigger, and slowly back away while maintaining eye contact.
In the event of a mountain lion attack, it is crucial to fight back aggressively and defend yourself using any means necessary. Use rocks, sticks, or whatever you can find to fend off the animal and protect yourself.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and working to ensure the safety of visitors to the Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
As we continue to enjoy the beauty of nature and explore the great outdoors, let us remember to respect the wildlife that inhabits these areas and take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Stay safe and stay vigilant while enjoying all that nature has to offer.
