Fort Collins Woman Killed in Mountain Lion Attack, Officials Urge Trail Caution

Fatal Mountain Lion Attack in Larimer County

A tragic incident in Larimer County involving a hiker and a mountain lion continues to make headlines.

What Happened on the Crosier Mountain Trail

On Thursday, January 1st a group of hikers on the Crosier Mountain trail came across a mountain lion near a person lying on the ground, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials.

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Officials say that this group of people scared the mountain lion off by throwing rocks at it.

By the time they had reached the person on the ground, it was too late.

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Colorado Parks and Wildlife Responds to the Attack

When officers arrived at the scene they were able to locate one mountain lion and euthanized the creature.

CPW officials said that this is in line with their policy, "...wildlife involved in attacks on humans must be euthanized to ensure public safety. "

Victim Identified in Larimer County Mountain Lion Attack

In a recent report from Denver 7, the victim of this attack has been identified as 46-year-old Kristen Marie Kovatch  of Fort Collins.

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Autopsy Results Confirm Mountain Lion Attack

The results of her autopsy reports show that her injuries were consistent with a mountain lion attack with her cause of death being ruled asphyxia due to external neck compression.

We will continue to provide you with updates as more information comes out regarding this attack.

Mountain Lion Safety Tips From Colorado Parks and Wildlife

If you are out and encounter a mountain lion, here are some guidelines from the CPW and Denver 7 on how to protect yourself.

What to Do If You See a Mountain Lion While Hiking

• Never approach a mountain lion
  Avoid lions that are feeding or with kittens. Give them plenty of space to escape.

• Stay calm and do not run
  Speak firmly, move slowly, and never turn your back.

• Make yourself look bigger
  Raise your arms, open your jacket, and make yourself seem bigger so they don't consider you to be prey.

• Defend yourself 
  Throw objects, wave your arms, and speak firmly without crouching or turning away.  Target the eyes and nose and try to stay on your feet.