Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Pete Thomas

Could fatal grizzly bear attack near Yellowstone have been avoided?

The woman who was killed by a grizzly bear Saturday near Yellowstone National Park was hiking alone and did not appear to have been armed with bear spray.

The incident occurred before 8 a.m. on the Buttermilk Trail west of West Yellowstone, Montana. The town is just outside Yellowstone National Park.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks confirmed in a Monday news release that the unidentified woman sustained wounds “consistent with a bear attack.”

Tracks from an adult grizzly bear and at least one cub were found nearby.

ALSO: Catch of massive tarpon off Florida sparks controversy

As of Monday morning, an emergency closure of the Buttermilk Trail near the attack site remained under an emergency closure implemented by the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Authorities are trying to locate and capture the bear believed responsible for the attack.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks stated in the news release:

“The hiker was believed to be alone during the encounter, and no bear spray or firearms were found at the scene. The incident is still under joint investigation by FWP and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

“FWP staff express sincere condolences to the family and friends of the hiker who was killed.”

Hikers in bear country are urged to stay in groups and to keep bear spray handy.

–Grizzly bear image courtesy of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.