Glen Haven, Colorado — A woman was fatally attacked by a mountain lion while hiking alone in the northern Colorado mountains on Thursday, marking the first recorded fatality from such an incident in the state in over 25 years, officials reported.

Authorities from Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed that wildlife officers later located and euthanized two mountain lions in the vicinity of the attack. This incident took place in a remote area south of Glen Haven, roughly seven miles northeast of Estes Park, a popular entry point to the eastern section of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Witnesses reported encountering a mountain lion near the woman’s body shortly before noon. Two other hikers in the area attempted to scare the lion away by throwing rocks, hoping to provide assistance. One of the hikers, a physician, assessed the victim’s condition but found no signs of life.

While the specific details regarding the woman’s injuries and the exact cause of death remain undisclosed, the implications of the attack have raised concerns among local residents and authorities. The ongoing search for any additional mountain lions in the area may shape how officials respond to wildlife management in the region. Colorado Parks and Wildlife representative Kara Van Hoose stated that the circumstances would determine any further actions taken regarding other lions found nearby.

Mountain lions are commonly sighted in the forested areas surrounding the site of the attack, although there have been no recent incidences involving human interactions. Van Hoose noted that the time of year typically sees a rise in mountain lion sightings, particularly in Larimer County where the landscape offers an ideal habitat for these big cats.

Historically, mountain lion attacks in Colorado are exceedingly rare. The last suspected fatality occurred in 1999 when a 3-year-old was killed. Prior to that, another tragic incident in 1997 involved the death of a 10-year-old boy at Rocky Mountain National Park.

In another recent instance, a mountain lion stalked and attacked two brothers in Northern California, resulting in the death of one sibling. Such events remind outdoor enthusiasts of the potential dangers present in natural settings, especially in areas known for wildlife.

Mountain lions, also referred to as cougars or catamounts, can weigh up to 130 pounds and grow longer than six feet. They mainly prey on deer and are known to roam vast territories. Colorado holds an estimated population of 3,800 to 4,400 mountain lions, which are classified as a big game species and are subject to hunting regulations in the state.

As investigations continue and public safety remains a priority, officials encourage hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to exercise heightened caution in mountain lion habitats and to report any sightings immediately.