A summer camp employee in Trinity County was attacked by a mountain lion on June 14, according to a joint statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. near Hyampom, a remote area in Northern California. The victim sustained minor injuries. In response, the property owner tracked and killed a mountain lion nearby, fearing it was the same animal responsible for the attack.
However, DNA testing confirmed that the euthanized mountain lion was not the one involved in the attack. Officials are now working to locate the actual mountain lion responsible.
While mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, local authorities are urging caution in the area. “A person is one thousand times more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a mountain lion,” the statement noted.
Mountain Lion Safety Tips:
- Stay alert while hiking and keep pets leashed.
- Walk with children and don’t let them run ahead.
- Never approach a mountain lion. Give it space to escape.
- Do not run. Face the animal, make loud noises, and try to appear larger.
- Pick up small children without crouching or turning your back.
Authorities recommend avoiding the area east of Hyampom while the search continues. Anyone recreating outdoors in the region is encouraged to stay vigilant and travel in groups whenever possible.
