Four-Year-Old Injured in Cougar Attack at National Park

Sign at Olympic National Park advising visitors of wildlife safety due to recent cougar attack.

News Summary

A four-year-old child was injured by a cougar at Olympic National Park during a hike. Following the attack, park rangers initiated a search for the animal. The cougar, equipped with a GPS collar, was found and euthanized the next day. This incident highlights the rarity of cougar attacks in Washington state and reiterates safety tips for park visitors, especially those with children.

Four-Year-Old Injured in Cougar Attack at Olympic National Park

In a startling incident, a four-year-old child was injured by a cougar while hiking at the popular Olympic National Park on July 20. The attack took place near the Victoria Overlook area on one of the well-traveled trails in the Hurricane Ridge region, a favorite spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Park officials were alerted to the situation around 3:15 p.m. on that Sunday afternoon. Quick-thinking rangers, along with the dedicated Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue paramedics, promptly arrived at the scene to provide immediate assistance. The injured child was urgently flown via LifeFlight to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, known as a Level 1 Trauma Center, for necessary treatment. As of Monday, the child remained in the hospital and updates on their condition were not available due to privacy considerations.

Search Efforts for the Cougar

As soon as the attack was reported, park rangers sprang into action, initiating a thorough search for the cougar. This particular cougar, notable for being collared, had a GPS tracker which might have assisted in tracking its movements. To enhance the search efforts, a canine team joined the rangers around 5 p.m. that same day, highlighting the park’s commitment to both public safety and wildlife management.

Just a day later, on July 21, the rangers successfully located and euthanized the cougar involved in the attack. This decisive action underscores the seriousness with which wildlife attacks are treated, even though such events are quite rare in the northwest. The area surrounding Hurricane Ridge Road was temporarily closed to ensure the safety of park visitors while the investigation unfolded.

Understanding the Rare Nature of Cougar Attacks

It’s worth noting that cougar attacks are extremely uncommon in Washington state, with only two recorded fatal attacks in the past century. The last such tragic event occurred in 2018 when a cyclist lost their life near Snoqualmie. According to wildlife experts, these majestic animals usually avoid human interaction whenever possible.

Safety Tips for Park Visitors

In light of this incident, the National Park Service has reiterated its recommendations for visitors, especially when exploring areas known to be habitats for cougars. They advise against hiking or jogging alone and strongly suggest keeping children within sight and close to adults. These simple precautions can significantly enhance safety while enjoying the breathtaking surroundings of such beautiful locations.

Officials are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, and they are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed anything related to the event to reach out. Interested individuals can share information by calling 888-653-0009 or emailing nps_isb@nps.gov.

As we reflect on this incident, our thoughts are with the young child recovering in the hospital and their family. This serves as a poignant reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the wilderness. Visitors to national parks should always remain vigilant, respecting the wildlife and understanding the dynamics of nature.