Jackson Hole Radio

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Tragic Incident in Yellowstone: Hiker’s Death Possibly Due to Grizzly Bear Attack

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– Preliminary investigation suggests a hiker in Yellowstone National Park was attacked by a grizzly bear.
– Defensive wounds on the victim’s forearms indicate a potential bear encounter.
– The victim’s body was found partially consumed and cached near the Elephant Back Loop Trail.
– Authorities are conducting DNA recovery and bear traps have been set in the area.


In a recent and tragic event, a hiker’s death in Yellowstone National Park has been linked to a grizzly bear attack. While the exact cause of death has yet to be determined, preliminary results from the investigation have revealed defensive wounds on the victim’s forearms, indicating a possible encounter with a bear. The incident took place near the Elephant Back Loop Trail, close to Lake Village.

The victim’s identity is currently being withheld until the family is notified. The hiker, a long-term seasonal employee of Medcor, a company operating urgent care clinics in the park, had worked and lived in Yellowstone for five seasons. With his experience and familiarity with the park, he was an experienced hiker. Concern arose when he failed to report for work on Friday morning, prompting a park ranger to launch a search operation.

Tragically, the victim’s body was discovered in a popular off-trail area, approximately 0.5 miles away from the Elephant Back Loop Trail. In the vicinity, evidence points to the presence of an adult female grizzly bear and at least one cub-of-the-year, as partial tracks were found at the scene. Investigators are now focusing on gathering bear DNA samples to aid in the investigation.

The ongoing investigation has faced challenges due to heavy rains in the area, making additional evidence recovery difficult. Despite these obstacles, wildlife biologists have set bear traps in the region to capture and identify the bears involved in the attack. If the trapped bears are confirmed to have been involved, they will be euthanized to ensure public safety.

Superintendent Dan Wenk expressed his condolences, stating, “We may not be able to definitively ascertain the circumstances of this bear attack, but we will not compromise public safety. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends as they cope with the loss of someone who cherished Yellowstone so dearly.”

As a precautionary measure, the Elephant Back Loop Trail and its immediate vicinity have been closed until further notice. Park visitor centers have posted signs and made maps available to inform visitors of the closure area.

Yellowstone National Park, spanning vast wilderness, is considered bear country. To ensure safety while hiking, visitors are advised to remain on designated trails, travel in groups of three or more people, carry bear spray, maintain vigilance for bear activity, and make noise to avoid unexpected encounters.

Tragic Reminder


The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the inherent risks when exploring the wilderness and encountering wildlife in Yellowstone. Grizzly bears, although a symbol of the park’s natural beauty, demand respect and caution. The investigation will continue as authorities work to piece together the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

Conclusion:
The recent death of a hiker in Yellowstone National Park is believed to be the result of a grizzly bear attack. While investigations are ongoing and the exact cause of death has yet to be determined, initial findings point to defensive wounds and the presence of a grizzly bear and her cub in the area. The park authorities have taken swift action by setting bear traps and closing off the affected trail for public safety. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time, and we emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when venturing into bear country in Yellowstone.

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