First Fatal Mountain Lion Attack in Northern California in Decades

TL/DR –

Two brothers were attacked by a mountain lion in Georgetown, California, with the older brother succumbing to his injuries, marking the first fatal human-mountain lion encounter in the state in 20 years. The mountain lion, a 90-pound animal in good health, was euthanized and later confirmed through DNA to be the attacker. Despite this incident, attacks by mountain lions on humans are rare, with a person being 1,000 times more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a mountain lion, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

A Teenager Reports a Rare Mountain Lion Attack on Brothers

A teenager reported a rare mountain lion attack in a remote area of Georgetown, California on Saturday. The 18-year-old and his 21-year-old brother were attacked while separated, with officials finding the elder sibling dead beside the mountain lion. This is the first fatal human-mountain lion incident recorded in California in twenty years.

Mountain Lion Euthanized and Brothers Identified

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife euthanized the mountain lion quickly. The 18-year-old survivor underwent multiple surgeries and is expected to recover. On Sunday, the wildlife department confirmed the DNA from the attack scene matched the euthanized lion, a 90-pound healthy animal.

Mountain Lion Attacks Are Rare

Mountain lions tend to avoid people, even if they share the same trails, says Winston Vickers, a wildlife research veterinarian at the University of California at Davis. Attacks are rare and often involve children or erratic movement.

Details of the Attack

The teenagers were antler shed hunting when the attack occurred. The younger brother called 911, and on arrival, officials found him with traumatic facial injuries. The elder brother was found dead around 1:45 p.m., with deputies scaring off the mountain lion to provide aid.

Historical Context of Mountain Lion Attacks

This incident is the first fatal mountain lion attack on a human since 2004, according to data from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Since 1986, there have been 22 verified incidents, with four proving fatal. Despite hundreds of sightings annually, mountain lion attacks are rare and people are more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by one.

Outdoor Safety

While the risk is low, Vickers advises outdoor enthusiasts to stay aware and prepared. Wielding bear spray or a walking stick can effectively deter an attack. Despite occasional incidents, the likelihood of other dangers is considerably higher.

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