Mountain lion
Share this @internewscast.com

PORT ANGELES, Washington (WJW) – A 4-year-old was hospitalized following an incident involving a mountain lion over the weekend, as reported by the National Park Service.

The encounter occurred close to the Victoria Overlook area at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park, stated the NPS in a press release. Hurricane Ridge is known for its scenic mountain views.

Investigators revealed that the child, whose identity remains undisclosed, was allegedly strolling with their family on a well-traveled hiking trail when the mountain lion bit them.

The attack was reported to rangers around 3:15 p.m. on Sunday, and paramedics and park staff traveled to the injured child, according to the National Park Service.

The child was life-flighted to a trauma center. As of Monday, the child was undergoing treatment at a Seattle hospital.

After the attack, park rangers, alongside a canine team, started looking for the animal, which was fitted with a tracking collar. On Monday, the NPS said the mountain lion was “located and dispatched,” a term that generally refers to killing an animal.

“There are no current threats to the public,” park officials said in the release.

The attack remains under investigation. Anyone who witnessed it should reach out to park officials by calling 888-653-0009 or by email at nps_isb@nps.gov.

Mountain lion
FILE. A mountain lion (not pictured) bit a 4-year-old on a popular trail in Olympic National Park in Washington state, officials say. (Getty Images)

So, what should a person do upon encountering a mountain lion? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services has compiled a list of things to remember.

For starters, they advise making yourself appear larger and more aggressive.

“Open your jacket, raise your arms and throw stones, branches, etc., without turning away,” the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services said. “Wave raised arms slowly and speak slowly, firmly, loudly to disrupt and discourage predatory behavior.”

Never run from a cougar, officials said. Rather, stand your ground and pick up small children without turning away or bending over, if possible.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services’ full list of mountain lion safety tips can be found at FWS.gov.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Court Victory Paves Path for Democrats to Gain House Seat in New York

ALBANY, N.Y. – A recent judicial ruling to invalidate the boundaries of…

US Diplomats Push Netanyahu for Progression to Phase Two of Gaza Ceasefire Amid Tense Talks

CAIRO – In a significant diplomatic push, American officials met Israeli Prime…

Protect Your Home: Essential Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Risks This Winter

Winter months often see a rise in carbon monoxide incidents, and on…

Apopka Man Arrested for Allegedly Setting Fire to Shed While Trapped Inside, Police Report

APOPKA, Fla. – A local man has been arrested following accusations of…

Governor Reports Fatal Shooting by Federal Officers in Minnesota During Immigration Enforcement Efforts

A 51-year-old man was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis amidst…

Minneapolis Erupts in Protest: Public Outcry Against Immigration Agents Following Fatal Shooting

MINNEAPOLIS – A call for federal immigration officers to withdraw from Minnesota…

List of Church Closures and Delays for Sunday, January 25

In Johnson City, Tennessee, several local churches have announced changes to their…

Stunning Snow & Ice Transformations: Captivating Photos from Our Winter Wonderland

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — As a winter storm sweeps across Southwest…

Family Identifies ICU Nurse as Victim in Minneapolis Incident Involving US Border Patrol Officer

MINNEAPOLIS – The family of a man shot by a U.S. Border…

Minneapolis Community Provides Safe Haven for Immigrant Children Separated from Families Amid Federal Pursuit

In a quiet Minneapolis neighborhood, an unsettling knock on the door changed…

Essential Safety Tips for Operating Portable Generators: A Comprehensive Guide

Portable generators are a common solution for individuals seeking backup power during…

Alex Honnold Scales New Heights: Daring Ascent of Taipei 101 Skyscraper

FILE – People take photos with the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper in…