NORTH BEND, Wash. — A mountain lion attacked two bikers, leaving one dead Saturday, according to King County Sheriff's officials.
See a photo of the mountain lion here (WARNING: Graphic).
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Emergency crews responded to a report of a mountain lion attack in the foothills near North Bend around 11:20 a.m. Saturday, Eastside fire officials said.
#Breaking Eastside Fire Fighters are responding for a mountain lion attack in the foothills outside of North Bend.
— Eastside Firefighters (@IAFF2878) May 19, 2018
King County Sheriff's officials said two mountain bikers were attacked. One was killed. Another is unaccounted for.
#UPDATE @kingcosoPIO says that 2 people were attacked however 1 person is unaccounted for. Deputies and fire fighters are looking for the second victim. https://t.co/0eti2InEox
— KIRO 7 (@KIRO7Seattle) May 19, 2018
KIRO 7's Deborah Horne reports the injured mountain biker was taken to Harborview for treatment. Responders found the mountain biker who was killed with the big cat still standing over the body.
A mountain biker was found dead with a cougar standing over him on a trail #NorthBend. @kingcosoPIO says a second biker was also hurt. Now they are warning hikers to stay away from the Tolt Reservoir/Hancock road area. Working to get more precise location. @KIRO7Seattle
— DeborahHorne (@DeborahKIRO7) May 19, 2018
Wildlife officials will now work to find the cougar.
Cougars, also known as mountain lions, are the largest members of the cat family in Washington state, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Mountain lions can be found throughout Washington state, Department of Fish and Wildlife officials say, where suitable cover and prey live.
Officials with the department offer this advice for anyone who encounters a cougar in the wild:
- Stop, stand tall and don't run. Pick up small children. Don't run. A cougar's instinct is to chase.
- Do not approach the animal, especially if it is near a kill or with kittens.
- Try to appear larger than the cougar. Never take your eyes off the animal or turn your back. Do not crouch down or try to hide.
- If the animal displays aggressive behavior, shout, wave your arms and throw rocks. The idea is to convince the cougar that you are not prey, but a potential danger.
- If the cougar attacks, fight back aggressively and try to stay on your feet. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought back.
This is a developing story. Check with KIRO7.com for updates.
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