Hikers make horrific discovery on as woman found dead in state’s first fatal attack in over two decades

A woman was killed by a mountain lion in Colorado on New Year’s Day, marking the state’s first deadly attack from the animal in 25 years. Hikers found her body on a trail with a mountain lion nearby. Officials are now investigating what happened and searching for the animal involved.

According to The Sun, people hiking the Crosier Mountain Trail saw a mountain lion standing about 100 yards away. A woman was lying on the ground next to the animal. The hikers threw a rock at the mountain lion to scare it off, and the animal ran away from the area.

After the lion left, the hikers walked over to check on the woman. They discovered she had no pulse. Authorities have not shared the victim’s name or any personal details about her to the public yet. It’s possible that the deceased’s family has asked for privacy.

Colorado officials are hunting down mountain lions in the area

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is leading the investigation into the attack. They started a large search operation to find mountain lions in that area. The agency is working with several other groups, including Larimer County Sheriff deputies, Estes Park police, and Glen Haven Area Volunteer firefighters.

Search teams brought in houndsmen with tracking dogs to follow the mountain lion’s scent. According to CPW policy, any animal that attacks a human must be put down to keep people safe. Investigators are not sure if one mountain lion or several were involved in the attack.

During the search, officials spotted one mountain lion and shot at it. The animal escaped but was later tracked down and euthanized. A second mountain lion was also found and euthanized by CPW. Pathologists will examine both animals to check for diseases like rabies or avian influenza.

Mountain lion attacks are very rare in Colorado. Only 28 attacks have been reported since 1990, and the last death happened in 1999. The tragedy adds to what turned out to be devastating New Year’s incidents across the country. However, mountain lions are easier to spot during winter months because they hunt deer and elk more actively during this season.

If you see a mountain lion while hiking, officials say you should stay calm and not run away. Pick up any children immediately and face the animal while backing away slowly. Make yourself look bigger by holding objects over your head or spreading your arms. While New Year’s Eve celebrations brought unexpected moments for many people, this incident serves as a reminder to stay alert on hiking trails. If the mountain lion becomes aggressive or attacks, fight back by throwing rocks or sticks at it.