A tragic incident unfolded in Northern California’s foothills over the weekend, highlighting the dangers of encountering wildlife in remote areas. A mountain lion attacked two brothers who were hunting for shed antlers near Georgetown in El Dorado County, resulting in the death of one brother and severe injuries to the other.
According to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, the younger brother made a distress call around 1:15 p.m. to report the attack and his separation from his sibling. Deputies promptly arrived at the scene and found the 18-year-old with traumatic injuries to his face. Meanwhile, the older brother was discovered lying on the ground with the mountain lion crouched over him.
In a desperate attempt to scare off the aggressive predator, deputies fired their service weapons. Once the mountain lion retreated, they rushed to the aid of the older brother, but tragically, he had already succumbed to his injuries. Wildlife officers and trappers from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, along with the El Dorado County Trapper, responded to the area and successfully euthanized the mountain lion.
The identities of the brothers have not yet been released, and there have been no updates regarding the condition of the surviving brother. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers that lurk in the wilderness, even for experienced hunters.
Georgetown, a small historic town with a population of just over 2,000, is located approximately 50 miles northeast of Sacramento. While mountain lion attacks on humans are rare, this incident emphasizes the need for caution and awareness when venturing into areas where wildlife resides.
It is worth noting that since the mid-80s, there have been nearly two dozen reported mountain lion attacks on humans, as documented by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. While tragic, it is important to keep in mind that encounters with these powerful predators are exceedingly rare.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the affected families during this difficult time. May this incident serve as a reminder to all outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant and prioritize safety when exploring nature’s majestic but unpredictable landscapes.
