Woman Dies in Suspected Mountain Lion Attack on Colorado Trail

A woman was found deceased on the Crosier Mountain trail near Glen Haven, Colorado, on New Year's Day, with injuries consistent with a mountain lion attack, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). This marks the state's first fatal mountain lion incident in over 25 years.

Around noon, two hikers spotted the victim from approximately 100 yards away, with a mountain lion nearby. They scared the animal away by throwing rocks and attempted to assist the woman, but she showed no signs of life. CPW officers, along with local law enforcement and emergency responders, arrived at the scene shortly thereafter.

Later that day, wildlife officials located and euthanized two mountain lions in the vicinity. Necropsies are planned to determine if either animal was involved in the attack and to check for diseases such as rabies or avian influenza. A search for a third mountain lion reported in the area is ongoing, and nearby trails remain closed during the investigation.

This incident follows a recent encounter on the same trail. In November, Gary Messina, a 32-year-old from Glen Haven, reported being confronted by a mountain lion during a morning run. Messina stated that he used his phone to photograph the animal before it charged at him. He defended himself by throwing his phone, kicking dirt, and eventually striking the lion with a stick, causing it to flee. Messina reported the encounter to CPW, leading to the temporary posting of warning signs along the trail.

Mountain lion sightings are relatively common in the area east of Rocky Mountain National Park due to its suitable habitat, characterized by dense forests and rugged terrain. However, attacks on humans are rare. The last suspected fatal mountain lion attack in Colorado occurred in 1999. CPW advises hikers to travel in groups, keep children close, and avoid hiking during dawn and dusk when mountain lions are most active. In the event of an encounter, individuals should maintain eye contact, make themselves appear larger, and back away slowly without running.