A Tragic Encounter with a Mountain Lion: One Life Lost and Another Traumatized in Georgetown, California
In a heartbreaking incident reported on March 12, 2023, near the peaceful town of Georgetown, California, an attack by a mountain lion resulted in one fatality and left another person with severe injuries. According to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, this is the first recorded fatal mountain lion attack in California since 1994.
The terrifying incident unfolded around 1:13 p.m., as authorities received a distressing call from an 18-year-old survivor, who reported that he and his older brother, aged 21, were attacked by a mountain lion while they were antler shed hunting in a remote area.
The younger brother was separated from his sibling during the unexpected encounter and sustained serious injuries to his face as a result of the mountain lion’s assault. Deputies and paramedics arrived on the scene promptly, providing necessary medical attention before transporting him to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
Following the initial report, the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office initiated a search for the missing brother. At approximately 1:46 p.m., they tragically discovered him next to the crouching mountain lion, just a few yards away from his sibling’s location.
In an attempt to protect themselves and reach the injured brother, deputies discharged their firearms to scare off the animal. However, upon reaching him, they sadly confirmed that the 21-year-old had succumbed to his injuries.
Immediately following this tragic discovery, wildlife officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived at the scene to investigate and locate the mountain lion. This rare encounter serves as a grim reminder of the potential danger that exists when humans venture into wildlife habitats.
Mountain lion attacks on humans are incredibly uncommon events, with fewer than 50 reported incidents in California since 1890. The majority of these cases have occurred when the human was alone, and only six of those resulted in fatalities.
The most recent recorded fatal mountain lion attack took place in April 1994, also in El Dorado County. In that instance, a 40-year-old woman tragically lost her life following an attack in the Auburn State Recreation Area.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife emphasizes the importance of taking necessary precautions when venturing into mountain lion territory, such as hiking in groups, making noise while exploring, and carrying bear spray. These measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of an encounter with these magnificent creatures.
Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into this tragic incident to determine potential factors and gather more information about the mountain lion responsible for this devastating event. Our thoughts remain with the families of those affected by this unfortunate encounter.
