Grizzly Attacks Hunter

An archery hunter was attacked by a grizzly bear while pursuing elk in Island Park this weekend. According to Idaho Fish and Game officials, the incident occurred Friday in a remote area of Caribou-Targhee National Forest south of Two Top Mountain. The victim and his hunting companion encountered what they described as a grizzly from a close distance while in thick brush. Both hunters carried bear spray and were able to successfully deploy it during the attack. The victim began to deploy his bear spray just before being knocked to the ground by the bear. The hunting companion came to his aide and deployed his own bear spray canister, shortening the duration of the attack and causing the bear to flee the area. Their preparedness and use of bear spray allowed both hunters to walk out of the backcountry on their own accord to call for help. The victim was transported by ambulance to Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg for treatment of his injuries. Signs are now being placed on nearby roads warning of bear activity in the area.