A man, aged 35, has suffered severe injuries in a frightening encounter with two grizzly bears in Wyoming, according to officials.
On Sunday afternoon, a 35-year-old male visitor from Massachusetts was “seriously injured” by a bear in the area of the Signal Mountain Summit Road, as reported by the Teton Interagency Dispatch. The National Park Service released a press release on Monday providing details about the attack.
Officials stated that Grand Teton National Park rangers and Teton County Search and Rescue personnel swiftly arrived at the scene to offer immediate medical assistance. The patient was then airlifted by helicopter and transported to an awaiting ambulance, which safely transported him to St. John’s Hospital.
According to the injured visitor’s account and the initial findings of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement rangers and park biologists speculate that the incident involved an unexpected encounter with two grizzly bears, resulting in one of the bears injuring the visitor.
Park officials have not revealed the details surrounding the incident or the means by which the man managed to protect himself. However, they have confirmed that the injured victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, is now in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.
Due to the recent weekend attack, access to the Signal Mountain Summit Road and Signal Mountain Trail has been temporarily suspended for public safety.
Park officials seized the chance to remind individuals of the measures they can take to prevent conflicts between humans and bears in the wilderness.
Authorities emphasized the importance of not leaving food unattended unless it is securely stored. They advised campers to maintain a clean campsite and follow all food storage guidelines. This includes storing all items that may attract bears, such as coolers, cooking equipment, pet food, and toiletries, in a bear-resistant food locker or a locked vehicle with closed windows.
Park officials emphasized the importance of storing garbage securely until it can be deposited in a bear-resistant dumpster. They also advised against eating or cooking in tents and strongly discouraged keeping food or other scented items inside tents.
The National Park Service emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from bears, urging visitors to keep a minimum of 100 yards away from these majestic creatures.