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.
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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